HC Deb 05 April 1973 vol 854 cc592-3
4. Mr. Parry

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will consider calling a meeting of Church leaders of all denominations in Northern Ireland.

Mr. van Straubenzee

My right hon. Friend has met Church leaders of all denominations, both individually and together, on numerous occasions, and is grateful for their help. The hon. Member's suggestion will be borne in mind.

Mr. Parry

The Secretary of State no doubt welcomed the recent plea by Cardinal Heenan for a tolerant and moderate approach to the White Paper. He will no doubt also have welcomed the statement issued by the Presbyterian Church. I am pleased that the Minister will consider having discussions with Church leaders. I think that we could do with the support of all Church leaders in the present climate in Northern Ireland.

Mr. van Straubenzee

The hon. Gentleman's remarks are very helpful. I gladly confirm, without reservation, that the lead given by Church leaders of all denominations in Northern Ireland pleading for a quiet and responsible response to and discussion of the White Paper was one of the significant factors in the way that the White Paper was received.

Mr. Redmond

Has my hon. Friend seen the letter published this morning in either the Irish Times or the Irish Independent—I think the latter—signed by the leaders of all Christian denominations in Ireland expressing appreciation for the way that the White Paper has been presented?

Mr. van Straubenzee

That is an extremely helpful contribution to our discussions. I am sure that the whole House welcomes the spirit that lies behind it.

Mr. Kilfedder

When my right hon. Friend had his discussions with the clergy in Northern Ireland did he discover that the great majority of Protestant clergy are anxious to get rid of sectarian division in education? Despite what is said in the White Paper, will he not grasp this nettle which perpetuates disharmony in the community?

Mr. van Straubenzee

Speaking for myself, I have detected among clergy of all denominations a great willingness to see a closer working together of schools of all kinds in Northern Ireland. This is not limited to one section. That is a different matter from the fundamental questions raised by my hon. Friend, but the spirit is unquestionably there among a large number of the clergy.