The General Synod - the parliament of the Church of England - yesterday backed recommendations that would end the right of vicars to own the freehold of their churches, churchyards and vicarage homes which critics say gives them an effective job for life. The Synod expressed grave reservations about who should own the freeholds in place of incumbent vicars. The recommendations are to be submitted to the 44 English dioceses for consultation before a final decision. The Church has recommended standard employment rights, under section 23 of the Employment Relations Act, should be granted "as soon as practicable" to all clergy in return for separating freehold ownership from future appointments. Andrew Taylor