The General Synod of the Church of England will hold its second 'Virtual Question Time' following its successful first showing last year, it has been announced.

The online initiative is looking to fulfil the aim of the Church to utilise new media to increasingly engage with its members.

Support for the idea was fully given by Rev Preb Kay Garlick, Chair of the Synod's Business Committee, who added that it was planned the drive would also operate in 2008.

According to the CEN, she said: "The Committee decided to hold the first 'virtual question time' last November, to gauge the Synod's interest in the opportunity to ask questions between meetings.

"Synod had to change its standing orders to make this possible and we are keen to give it a good trial.

"We have agreed that it should take place again this November and next, and then review the decision in the light of three years' experience."

The feature will allow members of the General Synod, the Church's elected governing body, to ask questions to the House of Bishops and the Archbishops' Council.

Members of Synod who wish to ask questions must submit them by 5.30pm on 31 October, with answers being made available on the Church of England website on 13 November.

The text of the Question and Answers will also be included in the Report of Proceedings at next year's February General Synod in London.