HC Deb 12 April 1923 vol 162 c1297
45. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

asked the Prime Minister the reasons why His Majesty's Government are taking no steps to ascertain whether a fixed date for Easter could be adopted throughout Christendom, in view of the favourable opinion of commercial men in all countries to this proposal and the not un-favourable attitude of ecclesiastical authorities towards it?

The CHANCELLOR of the EXCHEQUER (Mr. Baldwin) (replying for the Prime Minister)

I can add nothing to previous re-plies on this subject, in which it was stated that His Majesty's Government are not prepared at present to take the initiative in this matter.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that since his first reply the International Chambers of Commerce at Rome have expressed themselves in favour of this, as have also the Pope and the Primate of England? Does not that make a difference?

Mr. BALDWIN

When agreement is reached among the various churches, it may be possible to do something.