Bishops are reportedly now divided over whether gays in civil partnerships but pledged to celibacy should even be considered for episcopacy, in case this upsets those Anglicans in England and abroad who are most hostile to homosexuality. Church lawyers have reportedly said that, while candidates cannot be turned away simply because of their orientation, those in sexually active same-sex relationships should be refused and acceptance of even those who are celibate but partnered might be in question, since bishops must “act as a focus for unity”.