The issue has split the church since 2003 amid a row over gay cleric Jeffrey John becoming Bishop of Reading.

BBC: CofE drops opposition to gay bishops in civil partnerships

Jeffrey John, from Tonyrefail, turned down the post of Bishop of Reading in 2003 amid a row over his homosexuality.

BBC: Dr Jeffrey John

In July, homosexual Canon Jeffrey John decided not to go ahead with his appointment as Bishop of Reading after an outcry from evangelicals.

BBC: NEWS | UK | Wales | South West Wales | Unity plea over gay bishop