A Church of England bishop has criticised the Lambeth Conference, which starts in July, for shying away from the issue of homosexuality.
The Bishop of Manchester, the Rt Rev Nigel McCulloch, said it would be “odd” and “irresponsible” for the meeting to sweep the controversy “under the carpet”.
There are no plans for a major public debate on the issue of gay clergy and much of the conference will take place behind closed doors.
Many bishops, including moderates, fear that divisions will deepen unless the issue of homosexuality is confronted.
Bishop McCulloch criticised conservative bishops who are threatening a boycott because the Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr Rowan Williams, has invited American liberals.