§ MR. HANDEL COSSHAM (Bristol, E.)asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department, Whether it is correct, as reported, that at the funeral of a much respected parishioner of St. George, East Bristol, lately, the vicar refused to allow the bell to be tolled or the trestles used at funerals to be used because the deceased parishioner was buried by Nonconformists; and, whether such refusal is in accordance with the Burials Act; and, if so, whether the Government are prepared to take any steps to prevent a repetition of such conduct?
§ THE SECRETARY OF STATE (Mr. MATTHEWS) (Birmingham, E.)I am informed by the vicar that it is the practice not to open the church or to toll the bell at Nonconformist funerals. Such a practice is not, as far as I am aware, contrary to the Burials Act. The vicar tells me that trestles have never been used outside the church, and are not in use at all now. A form, which is generally used at the graveside, had recently broken down and had not been repaired, otherwise it would have been used on this occasion. I cannot see that the vicar has acted contrary to the law; and I must decline to interfere further in the matter.