BIBLE IN SCHOOLS.

Otago Witness, Issue 2623, 22 June 1904, Page 19

BIBLE IN SCHOOLS.

TH VICTORIAN REFERENDUM.

MELBOURNE, June 15

The Scripture-in-schools referendum is practically completed. Eighty-six thousand, against 60,000, are in favour of education remaining secular as at present; 78,000 to 68,000 are in favour of the scheme of Scripture lessons recommended by the Royal Commission being taught if parents consent. Preference is expressed for the prayers and hymns selected by the commission.

The electors were asked to give an answer to three questions, with a result that is apparently inconclusive. The majority on one question do not desire to alter the present act, while the majorities on the second and third questions favour a Royal Commission scheme defining the nature of religious instruction that may be imparted with, the parents' consent.

June 17.

Speaking on the Scripture referendum, the Rev. Dr Fitchett said that although the votes of the referendum had been counted the result had to be interpreted. He protested against Mr Bent's (the Premier) contention that the answer to the first question is decisive on the whole subject. If that were so, he wanted to know why three questions were asked. If they were irrelevant, then the whole referendum was a trap.

Mr Bent, replying, says lie had made it clear before the elections that he would regard the decision on the first qxiestion as vital. He had carefully iised the words '" at present " to indicate the value of the term " secular education."

The Anglican Bishop of Bendigo regards the referendum as a piece of political trickery.

The three questions submitted were as follows : —

I. Are you in favour of the Eclueat remaining secular, as at present? 56,D00. No i 60,000.

2. Are you in favour of such legislation as sKaIJ cause the scheme; of Scripture lessons feiggntaeiided by the Roia] Commission on

Kcligicu 1 - Instruction to bo tsuglit in .State erhooU during- school horns io chilclinn v.hoso parents desire the teaching? (Such lessons would bo giveoi subject to a conscience clau-o exempting teach Ms «ho object. Yc-s: 78.000. *No : 68,000.

3. Aro yon m favour of the prayers and hymns selected by the Royal Commission being used.'