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Amendment proposed—
Page 8, lines 20 and 21, leave out 'not referring to matters of doctrine and ritual,' and insert 'as to conduct.'"—(The Earl of Selborne.)
§ * THE EARL OF SELBORNEI think I should give some short explanation as to the reason for this Amendment. The words matters of ritual and doctrine were meant really as a direction to questions of conduct, and it is thought that the words "as to conduct" deal with the matter more effectually and comprehensively. It has been pointed out that the insertion of the words as they are in the Bill, together with the words in the previous clause, might have the effect of it being argued that the questions of doctrine and ritual were altogether excluded from questions of negligence. In the matter of negligence this Act merely incorporated the existing law under the Clergy Discipline Act, and the question of negligence may involve questions which come within the meaning of the words doctrine and ritual. Supposing an incumbent neglected the Sunday services—that would come within the head of doctrine and ritual. It would be a matter of great regret if the law were altered in that respect, and the substitution of these words is thought to avoid that danger.
§ Question put.
§ Amendment agreed to.
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Motion made, and Question put—
That the Bill be passed.
§ Agreed to.