HC Deb 12 May 1908 vol 188 cc919-20
*MR. R. DUNCAN (Lanarkshire, Govan)

I beg to ask the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies if the proposed design for the heraldic bearings of the Commonwealth of Australia will be submitted to the various heralds of the United Kingdom before final adoption, and if assurance will be given that, if the cross of St. George be embodied therein, the saltires of St. Andrew and St. Patrick, as representing Scotland and Ireland in the Empire, will not be omitted.

COLONEL SEELY

The design for armorial bearings for the Commonwealth of Australia was settled in consultation with the Commonwealth Government and their representative in this country; it was also submitted to Garter King-at-Arms and has already received His Majesty's approval.

*MR. R. DUNCAN

asked whether Lyon King-at-Arms had been consulted.

COLONEL SEELY

said he did not know whether Lyon King-at-Arms or Ulster King-at-Arms had been consulted, but as the design had been submitted to and approved by Garter King-at-Arms he supposed in heraldic language that it was "all proper."

*MR. R. DUNCAN

Is it not the case that a recent legal decision has established the position of Lyon King-at-Arms?

COLONEL SEELY

I am not very cognisant of these matters. As it has been approved by Garter King-at-Arms, I should suppose it is in heraldic language "all proper."

*MR. R. DUNCAN

Is the design open for the inspection of Members of the House either in colours or in black and white?

COLONEL SEELY

I will see what can be done. At any rate, I shall be glad to show the design to the hon. Member. We have a copy.