CHURCHMEN and women in Worcestershire will hold official talks on the controversial issue of homosexuality in the Anglican clergy.

The question of gay people and marriage and their role in the church has been a high-profile national debate for years.

Although the matter has been raised informally, Worcester Diocesan Synod last week agreed to hold informed discussions about sexuality for the first time.

It comes after leading bishops across the country called for open debates on the matter.

The Worcester Diocesan Synod said they would listen to the views of gay and lesbian people and would be 'attentive' to the scriptures during the talks.

The motion read: "This synod welcomes the renewed commitment to see that the informed discussion of sexuality that has so often been requested actually takes place."

Diocesan spokeswomen Kirstie Lee said: "We are in the 21st Century and the church understands that people live their life differently and shouldn't be ostracised for it. But this is about getting all the views out in the open rather than making any sort of policy decision."

Officials said the meetings would not put a strain on church cash as they could be funded from within the existing budget.

Ms Lee said that the issue was now a 'priority' for the church, however, no decisions on the dates, places or exactly who will attend have been taken.

The synod agreed the action plan on Monday, November 7 at Ipsley Church Centre, in Redditch.

The synod also rubber-stamped next year's budget at the same meeting.

Of the £7.1m budget, 73 per cent will be spent on parish clergy salaries, pensions and housing, 17 per cent on supporting mission and ministry, six per cent on administration and four per cent towards the national costs of the Church of England.

The synod also agreed to cut its numbers next year from 154 elected representatives, to 120.