CHURCHES ON THE AIR

Evening Star, Issue 23846, 28 March 1941, Page 9

CHURCHES ON THE AIR

OVER-LONG SERVICE CUT OFF QUESTION IN PARLIAMENT [From Oub Parliamentary Reporter.] WELLINGTON, March 27. The cutting off of church services on Sunday nights to enable the national broadcasting programmes to start at their fixed hour formed the subject of a question to the Prime Minister by Sir A. Ransom in the House. He asked that an instruction be given not to have church services interrupted for the broadcasting of band music. The Prime Minister replied that those who arranged the programmes, particularly of the national broadcasting service, had certain difficulties, but he thought it regrettable that church services should be interrupted in this way. There was a Church Committee, which set down pretty strict rules for the guidance of the churches in broadcasting. It did not countenance or encourage any increase in the time taken by the churches over the air. Rules were laid down that even the most eloquent preacher should conform to. Mr Holland: This was a special occasion.

The Prime Minister: Yes, I agree that judgment should be used. A few Sundays ago a preacher was cut off before the end of his sermon. On the other hand, it is not desirable that sermons should bo over-long, and the same with political speeches; but as much courtesy and convenience should bo extended as possible. Mr Lee; Tell them to ring a warning bell.