HC Deb 12 July 1909 vol 7 cc1646-7
Mr. M'ARTHUR

asked the Prime Minister whether he is aware that the Lord Bishop of London on 27th May took part in a procession at All Saints, Margaret-street, at which incense was carried in procession after public worship, and that on 30th June the same bishop was present at a service at St. Cyprian's, Dorset-square, at which incense was used to cense persons and things; and whether he will take the earliest opportunity of providing by legislation for the prompt and effectual restraint of episcopal action which contravenes the law?

Mr. SWIFT MacNEILL

Before the right hon. Gentleman answers, may I ask him whether, in consideration, as is suggested by the question, of the advisability of legislation for coercing the clergy and prelates of the Anglican Church in reference to their services, he would bear in mind the fact that the majority of the Members of this House are not Anglicans at all, and that many Anglicans are anxious to have their Church freed from the trammels of the State?

The PRIME MINISTER

I am informed by the Bishop of London that on both the occasions referred to by the hon. Member the use of incense was in accordance with the regulations laid down by himself and his predecessor, and was not what is known as "ceremonial use." I am not prepared to take action in the manner suggested by the hon. Member.

Mr. M'ARTHUR

Is the Prime Minister aware that this practice has been definitely held to be illegal?

The PRIME MINISTER

I am not, without notice, prepared to answer these very delicate questions, but I am told by the Bishop, who ought to know, that the use of incense on this occasion did not fall within the category of what is called "ceremonial use," and therefore did not fall within the prohibitions issued by himself and his predecessors.

Mr. M'ARTHUR

In view of the evidence I have placed before him, does not the right hon. Gentleman think it advisable to make some further inquiry without entirely accepting the evidence of the Bishops?

The PRIME MINISTER

No, I must take the Bishop's statement.

Mr. SWIFT MacNEILL

Will the right hon. Gentleman establish a High Commission Court?