HC Deb 14 December 1925 vol 189 cc955-6
29. Mr. MACPHERSON

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Home Department, as representing the First Commissioner of Works, if he will announce the decision of the Law Officers of the Crown regarding the jurisdiction over the Crypt Chapel; and if he will state-to whom application should be made for permission to use the Chapel?

Captain HACKING

The Law Officers decided that no ecclesiastical jurisdiction exists in respect of the Crypt Chapel. It is, therefore, under the sole jurisdiction, of the Lord Great Chamberlain, to whom application should be made for permission to use the Chapel for baptisms, weddings, etc. Arrangements in connection with the preparation of the Chapel for such ceremonies will be made by the Superintendent of Works.

Mr. MACPHERSON

May we take it from the answer that the Crypt of this ancient House is now available to Christians of all denominations?

Captain HACKING

Certainly, subject to the jurisdiction of the Lord Great Chamberlain.

Lieut.-Colonel FREMANTLE

. If the Church of England is still allowed to use it, will it be under the charge of the Speaker's Chaplain as hitherto?

Captain HACKING

No. It is solely under the jurisdiction of the Lord Great Chamberlain.

Lieut.-Colonel FREMANTLE

Will he then appoint somebody representing the Church of England?

Captain HACKING

No. If anybody cares to use the Chapel for any purpose they must apply direct to the Lord Great Chamberlain.

Lieut.-Colonel FREMANTLE

But who will be in charge of the altar furniture and so on?

Captain HACKING

For the time being, the Minister in charge of the denominational service concerned.

Mr. NEIL MACLEAN

Who has jurisdiction over the Lord Great Chamberlain?

Captain HACKING

I am afraid I must have notice of that question.

Sir HENRY SLESSER

Is it no longer a consecrated building under the Church of England?

Captain HACKING

That is so. It is no longer consecrated.