Business of the House

Part of the debate – in the House of Commons at 3:30 pm on 26 January 1989.

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Photo of Mr Jack Ashley Mr Jack Ashley , Stoke-on-Trent South 3:30, 26 January 1989

Is the Leader of the House aware that, in view of the need to maintain good relationships with the modern and democratic Japanese Government, our Government should invite the Duke of Edinburgh to attend a ceremonial state function in honour of Japan's new emperor rather than advise him to attend the funeral of the old emperor solely because, if the Duke of Edinburgh attends Hirohito's funeral, it will offend thousands of former prisoners of war? The Duke of Edinburgh should be advised not to attend the funeral on that ground alone, rather than because right hon. and hon. Members condemn Hirohito—something they are not entitled to do, because they do not have the evidence to do so.