23. Sir J. D. REESasked the Secretary of State for India whether he can give the House any information as to the date on which the Bill dealing with reforms in Indian administration will be introduced?
§ Mr. MONTAGUI hope this Session. But the precise date depends largely on the time when the Government receive the Reports from the Committees which are now investigating certain questions connected with the proposed reforms. I can assure my hon. Friend that no avoidable delay will be allowed to occur in the introduction of the Bill.
§ Mr. WATERSONCan the right hon. Gentleman say whether the principle of self-determination will be given to India when this reform is brought about?
§ Mr. MONTAGUThe policy on which the Bill will be founded is the policy of the 20th August, 1917, as announced in this House.
§ Mr. JOYNSON-HICKSWill the right hon. Gentleman undertake to lay the Reports of the Committees on the Table of the House before he brings in the Bill?
§ Mr. MONTAGUI hope to give the House all the information they require. It is absolutely essential that they should have these Reports.
§ Colonel WEDGWOODWhen does the right hon. Gentleman expect to have these Reports—during next month?
§ Mr. MONTAGUI am informed that the two Committees are making progress. I hope to receive their Reports within the next two months, but I cannot say the precise date.
§ Colonel WEDGWOODThat will be too late for legislation this year.
§ Mr. MONTAGUOh, no!