§ MR. ILLINGWORTH (Bradford, W.)I beg to ask the Secretary of State for War what is the rule with regard to garrison churches and other places of worship provided out of public funds for the use of the Military Forces; and are all such buildings available for religious services conducted by the representatives of the several religious denominations recognised by the War Office, or are they consecrated, and thereby set apart, for the exclusive use of one section only?
§ MR. CAMPBELL-BANNERMANIt can scarcely be said that there is a rule on this subject. Down to the early part of the century it appears to have been the practice to consecrate garrison churches, and, as a result, there are five churches in England, two in Ireland, and one in the Channel Islands which are attended by troops and which have been consecrated. Having thus been consecrated they are set apart for the services of the Church of England or Ireland. The latest consecrations were at Alder-shot and Woolwich in the year 1863. All other chapels, chapel schools, and rooms used for Divine service are unconsecrated, and open, according to the requirements of the Service, for use by any recognised denomination.
§ MR. ILLINGWORTHAre the churches consecrated thereby debarred from use by other denominations?
§ [No answer was given.]