§ 76. Mr. John H. Osbornasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what discussions Her Majesty's Government have held in the last two years with the British Council of Churches, with a view to establishing a fixed Easter Bank Holiday; what representations have now been received from the World and British Councils of Churches; and if he will now take a further initiative.
§ Dr. SummerskillThe Government continue to keep in touch with the British Council of Churches about the Easter Act 1928. We understand that while the British and World Councils of Churches are aware of sensitivities which make precipitate unilateral action undesirable, they are going ahead with consultations on the matter.
As regards the Easter Monday Bank Holiday, I would refer the hon. Member to the reply I gave to a Question by my right hon. Friend the Member for Kettering (Sir G. de Freitas) on 28th April.—[Vol. 910, c. 99.]