GENERAL ELECTION IN MALTA.

Timaru Herald, Volume CXXV, Issue 18555, 30 April 1930, Page 9

GENERAL ELECTION IN MALTA.

Effect Of Bishop’s Order,

REPORTED APPEAL TO POPE. (United Press Association—By Electric Tel egraph—Copyrigh t.) (Received April 29, 5.5 p.m.) MALTA, April 28. On the eve of the election, for which the campaign is in full swing, an order, promulgated in all churches, from Monsignor Gonzi (Bishop of Malta) caused profound consternation. The order condemned voting for the Constitutional Party as a mortal sin, and prohibited the Party’s adherents approaching the Easter communion, and receiving absolution unless they recanted their support of the Party, and citizens were forbidden to attend the party meetings and the horse races organised by the party. Nevertheless thousands went to the race and also to the meeting addressed by Lord Strickland (Head of the Ministry), who said that in view of this frontal attack on constituted authority, Ministers of the Crown had obtained dispensation from diplomatic restraints regarding facts known in diplomatic circles in Rome, apart from the question of official secrecy. He added that Monsignor Gonzi’s action was inexplicable. It is understood that the Government ‘ is making representations to the Pope. IIii; the meantime, both Parties are restless, but- reinforcements are ensuring order.