HC Deb 28 October 1954 vol 531 cc2133-4
45. Mr. H. Hynd

asked the Prime Minister if he will consider taking steps to alter the date of Remembrance Day from 11th November to either V.E.-Day or V.J.-Day, in order to give a better chance of outdoor ceremonies taking place in reasonably good weather.

The Prime Minister (Sir Winston Churchill)

I understand that the date of Remembrance Day was very carefully considered by the then Government in 1945 and 1946 in consultation with representatives of the Churches and the British Legion and with Commonwealth Governments, and that many possible dates, including those suggested by the hon. Member, were considered. The right hon. Gentleman the Leader of the Opposition announced on 19th June, 1946, that the King had approved a recommendation that Remembrance Sunday should be celebrated on the Sunday before 11th November, unless 11th or 12th November be a Sunday. Her Majesty's Government have no intention of making any change now.

Mr. Hynd

Does the Prime Minister agree that this date is not necessarily fixed in perpetuity? It is becoming more and more difficult for the rapidly ageing veterans of the First World War to pay the respect which they wish to pay to their fallen comrades on 11th November, when the weather is usually very bad.

The Prime Minister

I certainly think that it should remain under consideration from year to year.