Following the proposals set out in the Queen's Speech, three of Britain's largest denominations are urging the UK's politicians to “focus their concern on those who made little out of the good economic years".

These days it isn’t just anxious looking MPs and peers, lobbyists, civil servants, journalists and security officials you’ll find wandering near Westminster, says Simon Barrow. Among other unexpected visitors have been Batman, a troupe of clowns, Basil Brush and his foxy friends, a group of zombies and a super-sized duck home

Plans for a wholly or mainly elected House of Lords have been shelved until after the next general election, Jack Straw announced yesterday, but bishops would remain in a reformed Second Chamber if it is not wholly elected.

Members of the Church of England's General Synod have been told that it is 'highly unlikely' that a vote to allow women to become bishops will be taken before 2010. In the meantime the UK Parliament will continue to be the only democracy in the world with places exclusively reserved for men.

Rowan Williams clarified the nub of his thinking and showed contrition for clumsiness, but he declined to apologise and is not off the hook, say commentators and other public figures today, amid calls for disestablishment.