§ Q1. Mr. Crouchasked the Prime Minister what plans Her Majesty's Government have to commemorate the 800th anniversary of the martyrdom of St. Thomas à Becket.
§ The Prime Minister (Mr. Harold Wilson)The celebrations which might be appropriate are not a matter for Her Majesty's Government, Sir.
§ Mr. CrouchAs the Prime Minister has power to make archbishops, and even martyrs on occasion, would he not consider this one of those rare opportunities for intervention to ensure that the memory of St. Thomas a Becket is commemorated by the issue of a special stamp, first class or even second class?
§ The Prime MinisterI do not think that this martyrdom is really a matter for joking, even by the hon. Member; he is aware of the great feeling about it still in Canterbury. The hon. Member will be aware that under legislation passed by the House the decision about issuing commemorative stamps is now a matter for the Post Office Board. No doubt the hon. Gentleman will get in touch with the chairman.
§ Mr. MontgomeryHas the Prime Minister any intention of calling a quick General Election and so ending the present martyrdom of the British people?