The Church, the Constitution, and Weapons of Mass Destruction: The Role of the Church of England in Developing British Weapons of Mass Destruction Policy

The Church of England (CoE) has multiple avenues to influence British policy regarding Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD). Constitutionally, the CoE is represented by the Lords Spiritual, in the House of Lords, who raise moral and ethical considerations with respect to British WMD policy. Outside of Parliament, the CoE can make its position known on WMD through CoE General Synod Reports, Lambeth Palace Resolutions, involvement in mass movements, and writings and sermons. The purpose of this thesis is to determine the extent the CoE has on developing or influencing British WMD policy. Analysis of these avenues indicates that the CoE could be more effective in developing and influencing British WMD policy if: (1) CoE members agreed to the need for specificity regarding WMD policy recommendations to Parliament and Her Majesty\u27s Government; (2) CoE members agreed upon which Anglican Communion should determine the moral and ethical implications of WMD policy; (3) the CoE put forth clear, consistent positions that support Lambeth Palace resolutions; and (4) Lords Spiritual engaged more generally in House of Lords debates