HC Deb 09 June 1931 vol 253 cc785-6
12. Mr. DOUGLAS HACKING

asked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs whether he has had any recent communications with any of the Dominions regarding the fixing of a regular date for Easter; and, if so, what was the result of such communications?

The SECRETARY of STATE for DOMINION AFFAIRS (Mr. J. H. Thomas)

Steps were taken at the end of 1929 to ascertain the views of His Majesty's Governments in the Dominions and of the Governments of the Australian States and of Southern Rhodesia on the proposal to stabilise the date of Easter. Though replies have not been received from all the Governments consulted, those so far received do not disclose any unanimity in favour of the proposal.

Mr. HACKING

Do I understand that some of the Dominions have not replied to the communication sent by the right hon. Gentleman two years ago?

Mr. THOMAS

It is true that some of the Dominions have not yet replied to the communication sent by the previous Government.

Mr. HACKING

Will the right hon. Gentleman, with his great influence over the Dominions, repeat the question?

Mr. THOMAS

I gather that the object is to stabilise Easter and insure good weather. It may be that August would be a better month.