§ 4. Sir H. CROFTasked the Secretary of State for India whether he can make any statement as to the success of the police force in dealing with the crisis caused by the earthquake at Muzzafarpur; and whether, for any reason, the native police, including officers, were unable to fulfil their duties?
§ Sir S. HOARESo far as my information goes, the police at Muzzafarpur discharged most efficiently the responsibilities placed on them by the earthquake, and no case has come to my notice in which any grade failed to fulfil its duties. I should like to take this opportunity to add, to the many tributes already paid in India, my appreciation of the work done under terrible strain, by the officers of all ranks and of all departments throughout the stricken area.
§ 5. Mr. ANNESLEY SOMERVILLEasked the Secretary of State for India whether any relief will be afforded to the British planters in Bihar, many of whom have been ruined by the earthquake?
§ Sir S. HOAREYes, Sir. I am sending my hon. Friend a statement made by a member of the Bihar and Orissa Executive Council on the subject.
§ Mr. SOMERVILLEDoes that answer relate to the destruction of their bungalows and mills?
§ Sir S. HOAREI think that I had better send a statement to my hon. Friend. If he wants any further information, I will try to obtain it for him.