MODIFICATION DECIDED ON

Chronicle (Levin), 2 April 1946, Page 2

MODIFICATION DECIDED ON

COMPULSORY ARMY CHURCH - parades 1 . (f ' BRITISH GO VERNMENT ' S DECISION LONDON, March 29. It has heen decided that steps shall be taken in due time to cancel or modify the paragraphs in King's Regulations provicling for compulsory attendance at Army church parades. This announcement hy the Secretary for War, Mr. J. J. Lawson, in the 'House of Commons followed a debate in committee on a motion by Mr. T. Drieberg (La.b.) to abolish compulsory, church parades. Supporters of the motion opposed the present regulations chiefly hecause they meant "virtual compiilsion of men toi worship Gocl hy numbers'/' ' 'impaired the liberty of the£ subjects, and were uunecessary for discipline, In replying, Mr. Lawson 'said' he was glad it had: been made clear that it was not because sacred things were regarded lightly that tfie matter had been discussed, ancl any steps taken should not be misinterpreted. On- the one side there was a long army tradition of corporate worship, and- on the otfier there was the vital iinportance of freedom of personal religion and choice. The individual, whether soldier cr civilian, should be free to worship God in his own way and in his own time. Religion could not flourish in an atmosphere of compiilsion and restraint. He said he could not, for technicaf reasons, accept a motion, but he then announced that it had been decided that steps should be taken in tinid to cancel or modify the regulations. He added that the decision was made' after consultations on the widest plane. He was also speaking for the Air Ministry. The motion was negatived. ■