PRE-ELECTION SENSATION

Taranaki Daily News, 30 April 1930, Page 11

PRE-ELECTION SENSATION

PRONOUNCEMENT IN CHURCH.

DIRECTIONS TO ELECTORS.

By Telegraph—Press Assn.—Copyright. , Malta, April 28.

On the'eve of the election, for which the campaign is in full swing, an order promulgated in all the churches from Monsignor Gonzi, the Bishop, caused profound consternation. The order condemned voting for the Constitutional party as a mortal sin and prohibited the party’s adherents from approaching Easter -Communion and receiving absolution unless they recanted their support of* the party. Citizens were forbidden to attend meetings.. Horse races were organised by the narty and thousands attended them, and also a meeting addressed ''by Lord Strickland, head of the Ministry, who said that in view of, this frontal attack bn constituted authority- the Ministers had obtained a dispensation from dip- ; lomatie restraints regarding facts known in diplomatic circles in Rome apart from the question of official secrecy. He padded that. Monsignor Gonzi’s action was inexplicable. It r- understood that the Government is making representations to the Pope. In the meantime both parties are restless. Police reinforcements are ensuring order.