§ 69. Mr. M'KEANasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that, under the Spirit Restriction Order (No. 2), 1917, owners of motor cars are prevented from using them for the purpose of attending divine worship on Sundays, even where the owners are invalids and no other means of conveyance are available; whether he is aware that many such persons were prevented on Intercession Sunday from complying with the King's request to pray for a blessing on the military efforts of this country and those of the Allied Powers; and whether, having regard to the fact that the use of motor spirit is allowed in many other cases, apparently unnecessary, he will consider whether the Order above quoted should be abolished or at least modified so as to meet the requirements of such persons as can show that they have no other alternative to using their cars than being debarred from attending divine worship or the public performance of the sacred work in question?
§ The PRESIDENT of the BOARD of TRADE (Sir Albert Stanley)The question of the use of motor cars for the purpose of attending divine service has received full consideration, and I much regret that I cannot see my way to add anything to the reply given to the hon. Member for West Cavan on the 6th December.
§ Sir J. D. REESHas my right hon. Friend considered the case of the Catholics, who are under an obligation to attend divine service on Sundays?
§ Sir A. STANLEYVery careful consideration has been given to all aspects of this question. I can only say that I am exceedingly sorry it is necessary that these restricitions should be imposed.
§ Mr. GULLANDIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the High Court in Scotland held that attendance at divine worship was a national duty, and that therefore petrol might be used?