HOUSE WILL VOTE.

Star (Christchurch), Volume LXVI, Issue 20361, 19 July 1934, Page 9

HOUSE WILL VOTE.

Religious Instruction in Schools Bill.

(“Star ” Parliamentary Reporter.) WELLINGTON, July 19. A special promise to give facilities for a \’ote in the House on the Religious Instruction in* Schools Enabling Bill was given by the Prime Minister, Mr Forbes, to a deputation representing twenty-nine organisations, which waited on him with this request.” Mr Forbes made it clear that he supported the secular system, but explained that it was customary to permit a free vote in the House on this issue. Replying to the deputation, the Prime Minister said that the question of Bible reading in schools was always left for the approval of the people when members went to the polls. 'Phev were always asked for their views, and when they came to the House they were always pledged one way 7 or the other.

It had always been an important political question as to whether the education sy'stem should be secular or otherwise. He had always supported the secular system, but as far 2s the Bill was concerned, nothing would be done to prevent it getting a fair opportunity 7 cf being placed before members. They would have full opportunity to vote on it one way or the other.