HC Deb 06 May 1953 vol 515 cc376-7
45. Mr. Manuel

asked the Prime Minister what representations he has received from Scotland arising from the approval of Her Majesty's Government of the form of the proclamation of the title of the Sovereign.

The Prime Minister (Sir Winston Churchill)

My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Scotland and I have received a number of representations from Scotland suggesting that Her Majesty should not have been advised to adopt the style "Elizabeth the Second." I made a very full statement on the matter in the House on 15th April. This seems to have satisfied many reasonable people.

Mr. Manuel

Does the Prime Minister agree that these representations indicate that there are strong sections of public opinion in Scotland which think that historical accuracy ought to have been adhered to, and that his recent statement has not allayed the concern of that section of public opinion in Scotland?

The Prime Minister

I am sorry it has not been completely successful, but it certainly has not been disadvantageous.

Mr. Stokes

Can I ask the Prime Minister, as an ordinary Englishman who is not particularly interested one way or the other in this, what are the reasons why there is an objection to the title "Queen Elizabeth I of Scotland "?

Mr. Emrys Hughes

On a point of order, Mr. Speaker, are you aware that this matter is sub judicel This is before the Court of Session in Scotland, and yesterday Lord Guthrie adjourned the case for a week. I submit, Sir, that these arguments are sub judice because it is before the courts in Scotland.

Mr. Speaker

I am greatly obliged to the hon. Member.

The Prime Minister

May I express my obligation also?

Sir T. Moore

On a point of order, Mr. Speaker, could you give us either your advice or comfort in regard to Question No. 45, and tell us exactly the penalties to which the Prime Minister and the hon. Member for Central Ayrshire (Mr. Manuel) are subject because of the fact that they have been discussing this question of the Queen's numeral while the matter is sub judicel

Mr. Speaker

They are subject to no penalty whatsoever except the displeasure of the House, if that is vented upon them.