§ 45. Colonel BURGOYNEasked the Prime Minister whether he will consider the right of clergymen of the Church of England to sit in the House of Commons; and, if so, whether the Government will make themselves responsible for a Clause in the Bill which is presented permitting women to sit there extending this privilege to clergymen?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWThe hon. and gallant Member's proposal is outside the scope of the Bill, and I have received no indication that there is any desire for this change on the part of those interested.
§ Colonel YATEIs it not a fact that the clergy thoroughly understand the people, and are they not well qualified to assist in the deliberations of this House?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWI do not question that. My answer is that I have received from the great mass of the clergy no indication of a desire for a change.
§ Mr. KILBRIDEHave not the clergy special representation in another place?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWYes, and it is also a fact that some hon. Members of this House do not attach very much importance to it.
§ Mr. FLAVINHave the clergy of the Church of England any superiority over the Nonconformists and ministers of other denominations?