§ 46. Mr. Tom Smithasked the Prime Minister if he is aware that chaplains on demobilisation from the Services are left without hope of further employment in their respective churches; and if he will arrange that all Crown livings as and when they fall vacant are offered first to demobilised chaplains who have no employment.
§ The Prime MinisterThe employment of chaplains after their release from the Services is primarily a matter for their respective churches and I have no detailed information. I understand, however, that each Church has created machinery for their re-absorption as vacancies occur. The Service Departments provide information regarding service with the Forces and give each other assistance as they can. As regards the second part of the Question, there are an average of twenty vacancies a year which are filled on my advice. The claims of chaplains who have served or are serving with the Forces are given the most careful consideration, and while I cannot give an assurance that every vacancy will be filled in this way, as the needs of parishes must be considered first and there are others who have claims on the Crown, I will continue to consider very closely the claims of demobilised chaplains. I should like to take this opportunity of saying that I hope that all other patrons will do their best to help in this matter.
§ Mr. T. SmithIs my right hon. Friend aware that when the Question was put down on the Order Paper there were about 222 34 to 36 chaplains who could not get back; and if I send him details will he give them consideration?
§ The Prime MinisterCertainly, so far as it concerns me, but this is very largely a matter for the denominations concerned.