§ Mr. RADFORDasked the hon. Member for North-East Leeds, as representing the 870W Ecclesiastical Commissioners, whether he is aware of the strong feeling which exists in Salford against the closing of the church of St. Simon by the Ecclesiastical Commissioners for the purpose of amalgamating that benefice with the adjoining one of St. Matthias; and what action he proposes to take to ensure that due regard will be had to the wishes of the local residents?
§ Major BIRCHALL (representing the Ecclesiastical Commissioners)The scheme for the union of these two parishes and the demolition of St. Simon's church has been prepared in accordance with the Report of a Commission of Inquiry issued under the Union of Benefices Measure, 1923. The objections of the parishioners, as expressed by the parochial church councils, have been weighed by the Ecclesiastical Commissioners, who have not regarded them as affording adequate reason for not proceeding with the scheme. Under the Measure the parochial church councils have a right of appeal to the Privy Council.