BIBLE READING IN SCHOOLS

Taranaki Daily News, 8 July 1929, Page 9

BIBLE READING IN SCHOOLS

POSITION THIS SESSION UNKNOWN (By Wire—Parliamentary Reporter.) Wellington, Last Night. The prospects of the new Parliament having to deal with a Bible-in-School Bill are uncertain. Mr. H. Holland (Christchurch North), who moved the measure which aroused so much controversy in the last Parliament, has shown no sign of activity so far, nor has the Hon. L. M. Isitt, a strong advocate of the principle in the Legislative Council. Inquiries suggest that leading spirits in Parliament are waiting to find out exactly what form of legislation will be desired by the Bible-in-Schools League, and they will need to wait until the central executive has met to consider the matter. Meanwhile, opportunities are passing. Private members’ Bills are taking the best places on the order paper. The first Wednesday available for this class of legislation is fully booked up by the Rent Restriction Bill in charge of Mr. P. Fraser, and a Shops and Offices Amendment Bill drafted by Mr. R, McKcen (Wellington South). The following Wednesday has been preserved by the vigilance of Mr. H. G. R. Mason, who desires the House to consider the problem of marriage in an amendment of the Marriage Act, also tho Evidence Amendment Bill. He is promoting tw’o other Bills, and Mr. D. G. Sullivan is proceeding with the Workers Annual Leave Bill. All these measures take precedence over any possible Bible-in-Schools Bill, so that the controversy is hardly likely to reach an acute stage this session.