INTERCESSION DAY. (Hansard, 18 January 1918)

§ 5. Mr. WHITEHOUSE
asked the Patronage Secretary to the Treasury whether he consulted the authorities of the English Church and the Free Churches before issuing his letter of suggestions to the clergy and ministers respecting the procedure to be observed at services held in connection with the day of national prayer?

Captain GUEST (Joint Parliamentary Secretary to the Treasury)
The answer is in the negative.

§ Mr. WHITEHOUSE
Has the hon. Gentleman received any expressions either of approval or disapproval from the clergy to whom he sent the letter?

Captain GUEST
Yes.

§ Mr. WHITEHOUSE
Of approval or disapproval?

Captain GUEST
Almost entirely of strong approval.

§ Mr. WHYTE
Why has this been added to the duties of the hon. and gallant Gentleman?

§ Mr. KING
Is the hon. Gentleman not. aware that a very large number resent this action, as tending to throw doubt as to their right of free and independent leadership in this matter?

§ Mr. SPEAKER
The Patronage Secretary is not responsible.