PM won't choose bishops

LONDON -- New British Prime Minister Gordon Brown has relinquished his right to choose diocesan bishops in the Church of England and turned the whole business over to the church itself. It was one of Brown's first moves since taking office last month.

Until now, when diocesan posts became open, church leaders nominated two names and presented them to the prime minister in order of preference. The premier had the power to select the second name, or even to ask for more nominees.

Now, the church's Crown Nominations Commission will submit a single name for each post to the prime minister, who will then simply pass along the recommendation to Queen Elizabeth II, titular head of the Church of England, for her approval.

The change was greeted enthusiastically by leaders of the Church of England.

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