HC Deb 23 July 1903 vol 126 cc73-4
MR. SWIFT MACNEILL (Donegal, S.)

I beg to ask the Secretary of State for India whether the rule is still in operation precluding Indian officials front the acceptance in their private capacity of valuable gifts from the princes and chiefs of India, and, if not, when has that rule been abrogated; and whether this rule, if still in existence, is binding on the Governor-General of India in common with other officials, and, if there be any exception in his case, on what grounds is the exception based.

LORD GEORGE HAMILTON

The rules forbid the acceptance of presents by Indian officials of all ranks except with the express sanction of the Governor-General in Council. These rules do not apply to the exchange of presents between high officials and native chiefs in their ceremonial intercourse.

MR. SWIFT MACNEILL

Has not the Governor-General in his private capacity accepted a valuable present from the Maharajah of Benares.

LORD GEORGE HAMILTON

I have no information on that subject.

MR GIBSON BOWLES (Lynn Regis)

Are the presents thus received always sold for the benefit of the Government?

LORD GEORGE HAMILTON

Yes.

SIR J. FERGUSSON (Manchester, N.E)

And when a present is received from an Indian prince or chief, one of equal Value is made to him.

LORD GEORGE HAMILTON

Yes, there is always an interchange of presents on ceremonial occasions.

MR. SWIFT MACNEILL

The money derived front the sale of the presents being paid in to the Treasury.