The Church of England governing body The Synod is debating ahead of a vote today on whether to allow the ordination of women bishops, the culmination of more than 10 years of debate on one of the most divisive issues within the Anglican community. Although the church has had women priests since 1994.

The newly ordained Archbishop of Canterbury Bishop Welby speaking at Lambeth Palace is supportive of this move.

Reverend Jane Morris was one of the first women to become a priest in the early 1990's. She will be voting in favour of the measure, but with a slightly heavy heart as she believes the compromise discriminates against women.

For the law to pass it needs two-thirds majorities in each of the Synod's three houses: Bishops, Clergy and Laity.When last voted on in 2010, it looked capable of achieving this in a final vote in the first two but less so in the House of Laity.

And if it does pass it must be passed by both Houses of Parliament. After Royal Assent, the Synod must approve a Code of Practice.After that women bishops would start to be appointed almost immediately - perhaps in 2014 - because there is a growing pool of female senior clergy.

Written and presented by Ann Salter