The Diocese of Bristol is delighted by the appointment of Sir Robert Buckland KBE as the next Third Church Estates Commissioner.
As Third Church Estates Commissioner, he will join the Church Commissioners for England’s Board of Governors, and chair the Mission, Pastoral and Church Property Committee, as well as the Bishoprics and Cathedrals Committee.
The Rt Revd Vivienne Faull, Bishop of Bristol, said: “I warmly welcome Sir Robert’s appointment as the next Third Estates Commissioner. For many years he has been a valued part of our diocesan community. I am certain that Sir Robert’s deep faith, commitment to service, and wealth of experience will be a great gift to the Church Commissioners and the wider Church.”
The Revd Canon Simon Stevenette, Vicar of Christ Church, Swindon said: “It has been a great privilege and joy to have Robert and his daughter Millie as regular members of our congregation at Christ Church Swindon over the last twelve years. We have learnt a lot from them and are delighted that Robert will now be serving the Church of England nationally in his new role. We assure Robert and his family of our continued encouragement and prayers. God bless you, Robert, thank you for who you are and what you give in your vocation as an ambassador for Christ wherever you are.”
Sir Robert’s distinguished career in public service includes a period as HM Solicitor General for England and Wales, Lord Chancellor and Secretary of State for Justice, Minister of State for Prisons, and Secretary of State for Wales. He was a practising barrister for nearly twenty years and part time Crown Court judge, before becoming the Conservative MP for South Swindon in 2010. Sir Robert was awarded a KBE in the 2022 New Year Honours List.
Sir Robert has been a champion of the rights of autistic people, chairing the APPG on Autism for several years and leading the Government’s review of autism employment. Since 2024 he has been an Honorary Canon of Bristol Cathedral, supporting its mission and ministry, and fostering connections with the wider diocese and its churches.
Sir Robert Buckland said: “I am deeply honoured to be taking on this role. The Church Commissioners plays a crucial role in supporting the mission of the Church of England, not least by providing funding for ministry in 42 dioceses across the country and many of the country’s most-cherished buildings. I hope my work will help ensure our rich history and future mission is secure for many generations to come.”
He assumes the role of Third Church Estates Commissioner on 14th March 2025, succeeding the Rt Revd Dr Flora Winfield, who was recently appointed Bishop of Selby.
Image credit: UK Parliament/Richard Townshend