§ 59. Sir Anthony Royleasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will reinstate the tradition of holding Remembrance Day on 11 November at 11 am irrespective of which day of the week it falls, and revert to the old tradition by advising two minutes' silence throughout the United Kingdom on that day, in remembrance of those who have died in action in wars in the present century; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. WhitelawAfter careful consultation it was decided in 1956 that the ceremony and service should be held on a national day of remembrance for all who have given their lives in the service of their country and that, although a link should be maintained with the original Armistice Day, the ceremony should not be dedicated to any particular event. The choice of a Sunday permits the maximum possible number of people throughout the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth to take part. I see no reason for change in the present arrangements.