Worthy Ashes

Because the Primate of Belgium, Cardinal van Roey, counseled Catholics not to attend the "meaningless" funerals of cremated persons (TIME, March 2) and protested against government participation at the funeral of Hero Lieut.-General Bernheim (cremated by his express wish), Belgian Socialist Deputies fought last week a short, victorious battle in the Chamber with Belgian Catholics.

"Although I have no personal preference for cremation as a means of quitting this world," cried Socialist Leader and onetime Minister for Foreign Affairs Emile Vandervelde, "the incidents of last week make swift action most urgent!"

Swiftly, by a vote of 86 to 70, the Chamber passed the Socialist bill legalizing cremation.

"The greatest indignation was provoked throughout Belgium," declared Socialist Deputy Merlat, "by what appeared to be an insinuation that General Bernheim's ashes were not worthy of honor."

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