HC Deb 18 February 1914 vol 58 c946
47. Mr. ALDEN

asked the Prime Minister whether his attention has been directed to the fact that trusts of a partisan character have been formed by certain sections in the Church of England for the purpose of acquiring advowsons; and whether he will take steps to amend the law so as to prevent such traffic in the cure of souls?

Mr. MacNEILL

Before the right hon. Gentleman answers that question may I ask him before he undertakes to introduce any legislation on this subject if he will get the whole matter referred to the body of which the Archbishop of Canterbury is an ex-officio member? I refer to the Board of Trade, which is perfectly competent to deal with these things.

The PRIME MINISTER

I have seen what has appeared on this subject in the public Press. I will consider the matter, but I fear I do not see my way to introduce legislation at the present.