HC Deb 13 March 1972 vol 833 cc29-30
36. Mr. Spriggs

asked the hon. Member for Chelsea, as Second Church Estates Commissioner, what criteria were used by the Church Commissioners for England when, in exercise of their powers conferred on them by Section 2(1) of the Ecclesiastical Fees Measure, 1962(a), and all other powers enabling them in that behalf, they ordered increased fees by the Parochial Fees Order, 1972, due to come into operation on 1st June, 1972.

The Second Church Estates Commissioner Representing the Church Commissioners (Mr. Marcus Worsley)

The main criterion was the fall in the value of money. This was not fully taken into account when the fees were last reviewed in 1962.

Mr. Spriggs

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that over the years the increases in fees have amounted to many hundred per cent.? One in particular, for the carriage of a headstone or surround across church grounds, has increased from £5.50 to £11. Is not that disgraceful at a time when the Government are asking everyone to keep down costs and are asking trade unionists to restrict their wage demands? Yet the Government allow this matter to lie on the table. Why?

Mr. Worsley

With respect to the hon. Gentleman, the figure he gave is an in-increase of 100 per cent., not many hundred. An examination of the figures will show him that on average over the years the increases have been rather less than those necessary to keep up with the fall in the value of money. The fee for the cheapest headstones has been reduced under the orders.

Sir D. Walker-Smith

Does not my hon. Friend appreciate that an increase of 100 per cent. is scant consolation? Will he not ask the Church Commissioners to reconsider and, if possible, remove this grossly inflationary increase in the cost of dying?

Mr. Worsley

I note what my right hon. and learned Friend has said but I think in all seriousness that, on looking at the figures in the context of the long period since a major review has taken place, he will find them not unreasonable.

Mr. Harold Walker

The hon. Gentleman has not told the House how an increased cost can be involved in granting permission for the erection of a headstone. How can such an increased cost be incurred? Will any of the increase go towards the stipends of low-paid clergymen? Will he ensure that they get a share and that the extra money will not all go to diocesan funds?

Mr. Worsley

I can give the hon. Gentleman that assurance in the case of most of the money involved, although some goes to the parochial church councils, who are responsible for maintaining churchyards. I think he will agree that it is a reasonable charge.