HC Deb 14 February 1899 vol 66 cc854-5
MR. BARTLEY () Islington, N.

I beg to ask the Secretary of State for India whether, in dealing with the suppression of the plague in India, the conscientious objector who on conscientious or religious grounds objects to the action of the sanitary authorities in attempting to stamp out the disease is allowed to be exempted in the same way as the conscientious objector to vaccination is in this country?

THE SECRETARY OF STATE FOR INDIA (LORD GEORGE HAMILTON,) Middlesex, Ealing

In dealing with the plague in India, all possible respect is shown to the religious or conscientious scruples of the natives. My honourable Friend is no doubt aware that inoculation against the plague is not compulsory, though very large and increasing numbers of natives have availed, and are availing, themselves of its benefits.

MR. BARTLEY

Then I understand the noble Lord to say that the conscientious objector is not recognised in India?

THE SECRETARY OF STATE FOR INDIA

I did not say that. My reply must be gathered from within the four corners of my answer.