§ 68. Mr. Dribergasked the hon. Member for Gravesend, as representing the Church Commissioners, if he will make a further statement on the proposed closing of Holy Trinity Church, Lambeth, and on any action that he has been able to take to delay such closing.
§ Sir R. AclandYes. The only action which it has been in my power to take personally is to invite the Commissioners and the Bishop to consider the points raised by hon. Members in the debate. Arising from that consideration, the Commissioners have decided to implement the rest of the scheme but to defer the closing of Holy Trinity church for their subsequent consideration. The Bishop has discussed the situation with both the vicars concerned, inviting their co-operation.
136WThe Vicar of Holy Trinity has unfortunately not been able to accept the suggestion that he should remain and help the vicar of the united parish to make the change-over successful, being allowed to occupy the house rent free in the meantime; and the Bishop, in order to do his utmost to meet the views expressed in this House, has now decided to offer to the Vicar of Holy Trinity that, despite the union, he shall remain for a year in full and independent charge of the church and area of his former parish. To this the Vicar of the united parish will agree; the reply of the vicar of Holy Trinity must be awaited. If he is unable to agree, the Commissioners will advise the Bishop that the scheme may proceed subject only to deferment of the closure of the church of Holy Trinity.