HC Deb 13 November 1940 vol 365 c1702
46. Mr. Sorensen

asked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the three days of prayer for peace through justice and charity appointed by Cardinal Hinsley for members of the Roman Catholic Church, he will consider a proposal for a national day of prayer for the same purpose arranged in collaboration between the Church of England and the Free Churches?

Mr. Attlee

While I sympathise with my hon. Friend's suggestion, my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister cannot see his way to recommend that this proposal should be adopted at the present time. I would remind my hon. Friend that a day of National Prayer was held as recently as 8th September last.

Mr. Sorensen

Is it not undesirable that one Church should give the lead in this form of prayer, and whatever may be one's view of the efficacy or otherwise of this practice, will my right hon. Friend please ask the Prime Minister to consider the possibility of the next Day of Prayer being for the purpose laid down by this particular Church?

Mr. Attlee

I do not think there is anything I need add to the Prime Minister's statement. I think it must be a decision by the Government, and because a particular Church decides to take action, that does not necessarily mean that the Government must do the same.

Mr. Mander

Is it not a fact that what we all desire is peace with victory?