CO129-250 - Acting Governor Barker - 1891 [6-8] — Page 51

ground, apparently, that they were fully considered some sixteen years ago by a predecessor in office.

I regret extremely that Lord Knutsford should have arrived at this decision on such grounds. I cannot agree with her that the subject has quite recently been amended in the marriage laws where they were found to bear hardly on Catholics.

I have pointed out in letters that the existing Ordinances bear hardly on Catholics and raise conscientious objections on their part. I have called attention to the fact that the subject was considered sixteen years ago, very imperfectly and under the influence, at least, of strong anti-Catholic feeling, and even if the very fullest consideration had been given them then, that affords no claim for redress of grievances inflicted at that time, and patiently endured ever since.

Day by day and year by year, the English Government is showing itself more tolerant, and has drawn attention to the fact that in India, Singapore, Malta, and in the Mauritius, a state of laws exist which provide amply for every requirement of the state in regard to marriage, yet leave the Catholic Church free and untrammelled, and I have requested that similar laws be introduced here. I regret that we cannot admit as an answer what Lord Knutsford says that the matter was considered 16 years ago and therefore won't be re-opened.

You mention in your letter that...