Taking a tip from Father Ted

It was, in the truest sense of the word, an ecumenical matter this evening.

Three members of the Church of England General Synod came down for the evening, to see what we had in common. You know, deep, theological stuff - tea lights, pebbles, hazelnuts, committees.

We were a bit concerned that Hnaef might get off the leash and start demanding they bring in equal marriage and equal rites.

So we trained him to say just two expressions, which will enable anyone to survive in Synod company.

"Maybe!"

and "We should give somebody a few years to produce a discussion document."

I think he fitted in very well.