HC Deb 14 February 1938 vol 331 c1501
4. Sir N. Stewart Sandeman

asked the Under-Secretary of State for India whether he will make a statement on the subject of the movement in India to declare complete independence?

Earl Winterton

I have no information of any "movement in India to declare complete independence" but it is the case that certain political organisations have adopted the attainment of complete independence as their aim.

Sir N. Stewart Sandeman

Is it a fact that the Ministry in the United Provinces proposes to declare that 26th January shall be celebrated as Independence Day?

Earl Winterton

I think the hon. Member should put that question on the Order Paper.

Brigadier-General Sir Henry Croft

Is it a fact that the organisation to which the right hon. Gentleman refers is in control of five Provinces of India?

Earl Winterton

The hon. and gallant Member is aware that for years past it has been the declared policy of certain bodies to aim at independence, but I think the Government of India can be trusted to deal with any movement which is unconstitutional.