§ SIR J. LUBBOCK (London University)I beg to ask the Under Secretary of State for India whether, if the Government propose to adopt a gold standard in India, any opportunity will be afforded to Parliament of expressing its views on the subject?
MR. G. RUSSELLAs my right hon. Friend is aware, it has been decided to adopt a gold standard in India, and the measures which have been taken have that end in view. The annual Financial Statement, which it will be my duty to make, will afford to hon. Members an opportunity of expressing their views upon the action of Her Majesty's Government.
§ SIR J. LUBBOCKWill the Financial Statement be made before the Government take any action?
§ SIR J. LUBBOCKI beg then to ask it of the Prime Minister.
§ THE FIRST LORD OF THE TREASURY (Mr. W. E. GLADSTONE, Edinburgh, Midlothian)I have had no notice of the question, and have, therefore, no information on the point; but it is within the right of the House of Commons, if it sees fit, to challenge the currency proposals with regard to India.
§ SIR J. LUBBOCKAt what rate is gold to be given for rupees?
§ MR. W. E. GLADSTONEI can only refer the right hon. Gentleman to an answer given the other day on this subject. If the right hon. Baronet will put any further questions on the Paper, I will get the necessary information to reply to them.
§ SIR J. LUBBOCKI am anxious to know whether the Government propose to give gold for rupees at the rate of 1s. 4d., or at any other fixed rate? I will put that question on a future day.