HC Deb 25 March 1965 vol 709 cc726-7
20. Mr. Driberg

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether Her Majesty's Government have now completed their study of the views expressed by hon. Members on the Crathorne Report on 15th February: what conclusions they have arrived at on the revision of the laws affecting Sunday observance; and whether the necessary legislation is now being prepared.

35. Mr. Parker

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department when the Government propose to introduce legislation to carry out the Crathorne proposals on Sunday observance.

Sir F. Soskice

While I am anxious that the law on Sunday observance should be rationalised and brought into keeping with modern thought and conditions as soon as that can reasonably be done, I am not yet able to say when it may be possible to introduce legislation.

Mr. Driberg

Will my right hon. and learned Friend bear in mind that the majority of those who spoke in the debates on this subject in both Houses of Parliament were, broadly speaking, in favour of the reforms proposed by the Crathorne Committee, and, whatever further soundings of public opinion or consultations have to be taken, will he also bear in mind that most of those were actually taken by the Crathorne Committee itself? Therefore, will he assure us that there will not be undue delay?

Sir F. Soskice>

One of the purposes of the debate was to elicit opinions both inside the House of Commons and in the country. Quite naturally, the Government will give the most careful consideration to what was said in all parts of the House.

Mr. Sharples

Can the Home Secretary say what further steps he is taking, and what is the main factor that is delaying legislation?

Sir F. Soskice

The steps I am taking are to ponder most carefully on the various views that are expressed, and to consider in the light of them how best the public interest may be served.

Mr. Heffer

Is my right hon. and learned Friend aware that such legislation would be widely welcomed; and that if the Government cannot see their way clear to introduce it quickly there will be a great deal of scepticism in the country that we have no intention of acting quickly in this matter?

Sir F. Soskice

I do not think that I can add to what I have said, namely, that I am anxious that the law on Sunday observance should be rationalised and brought into keeping with modern thought and conditions as soon as that can reasonably be done.