HC Deb 11 May 1916 vol 82 cc912-3
42. Major NEWMAN

asked the President of the Board of Education whether the Board of Education will follow the example of other parts of the Oversea Dominions and give instructions that Empire Day, 24th May, shall be marked by a lecture on the Empire in all public schools in the country and observed as a half-holiday?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the BOARD Of EDUCATION (Mr. Herbert Lewis)

The Board of Education have no authority to issue instructions of the kind indicated. I have, however, no doubt that local education authorities and school authorities will take such steps as they consider appropriate for the observance of Empire Day, and I will see that this question and answer are communicated to them.

56. Major NEWMAN

asked the Prime Minister whether the second year of comradeship in arms of the Forces of the Empire will on Empire Day, 24th May, be marked by flying the Union Jack on all public buildings and schoolhouses in Great Britain; and whether the Government's wish to this effect has been communicated with a view to its universal adoption?

The PRIME MINISTER

The Government's approval of this suggestion has already been expressed in another place, but I am glad to take this opportunity of repeating that His Majesty's Government will cause the Union Jack to be flown on all public buildings under their control, and hope that their example will be followed.

Colonel CRAIG

Will that be permitted in Ireland?

The PRIME MINISTER

Oh, yes.