§ 34. Mr. Sorensenasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he will give particulars respecting the appointment of Bishop Gonzi, of Gozo, as coadjutor to the Archbishop of Malta; whether this appointment was by arrangement with the Governor or the British Government; and whether he is satisfied that the appointment is in the interest of the people of Malta?
§ Colonel StanleyYes, Sir. This appointment was made by the Holy See with the concurrence of His Majesty's Government. It will enable Bishop Gonzi to give immediate assistance to the Archbishop, who, I regret to say, has not been in good health for some time. Bishop Gonzi will remain in charge of the See of Gozo as Apostolic Administrator. The answer to the last part of the Question is in the affirmative.
§ Mr. SorensenIs the Minister aware that there is other feeling on this matter and that this particular Bishop is not looked upon as being at all sympathetic to the democratic aspirations of the people of Malta?
Dr. MorganIs it necessary for Questions of this character about a well-known Bishop to be asked by people who know nothing about the subject?
§ Colonel StanleyThis is a matter of old controversy and one to which I have given close attention. It is only fair to the Bishop to state that the Governor of Malta told me of the complete co-operation which he has had from the Bishop during the difficult times Malta has gone through.