HC Deb 11 March 1930 vol 236 c1076
3. Mr. MARJORIBANKS

asked the Secretary of State for War whether the Chaplains' Board was consulted before the order was issued with regard to public intercession on behalf of Christians in Russia on official parades?

1. Mr. SHAKESPEARE

asked the Secretary of State for War whether the Chaplain-General to the Forces was consulted before the Army Council issued instructions against intercessory prayers on church parades on 16th March?

The SECRETARY of STATE for WAR (Mr. T. Shaw)

The answer is in the negative.

Mr. MARJORIBANKS

Is it not usual to consult the Chaplains' Board on such occasions?

Mr. SHAW

This was a Government decision of a political, and not a religious, nature.

Mr. MARJORIBANKS

Will the right hon. Gentleman give me an answer to my question? Is it not usual to consult the Chaplains' Board on these matters?

Mr. SHAW

This matter has never arisen before, so it cannot be usual.

Colonel ASHLEY

Is not this the first time that any Government has stated that political considerations decide what ought to be a religious matter?

Mr. SHAW

Obviously, it is the first time that it has occurred.

Mr. MACQUISTEN

Is it the position that the Army may watch, but may not pray?

Mr. SHAW

The Army can pray as much as it likes, but these services must not be compulsory services.

Sir GEORGE HAMILTON

Did the Chaplain-General tender his resignation in connection with this matter?

Mr. SHAW

So far as I know, no.

HON. MEMBERS

Accept it if he does!