HUNDREDS of delegates staged a walk-out today at the Church of England General Synod meeting in York as gay rights activists invaded the stage.

A group of six protesters, led by gay human rights activist Peter Tatchell, interrupted the session and held up posters claiming the Anglican church was prejudiced towards gays.

As participants booed and left their seats, Mr Tatchell, 51, said: "If you want an inclusive church you will have to listen to those who are being prejudiced against.

"We hold no bigotry against anyone, but we defend the right for people to live their lives in a different way."

Today's protest came only hours after the General Synod voted not to debate the controversy surrounding the appointment of Canon Jeffrey John as Bishop of Reading.

The Synod last night ruled that debating the issue, which has since seen Mr John withdraw, would not be included in the agenda.

Some of the 350 delegates at today's meeting at the University of York began a dialogue with the activist.

One member said: "The hurt is on both sides, but this is not the way to conduct a proper debate."

Among the issues due to be discussed were the first set of guidelines for the conduct of Church of England clergy.

Updated: 12:57 Saturday, July 12, 2003