HC Deb 12 March 1908 vol 185 cc1735-6
MR. O'GRADY

I beg to ask the Secretary of State for India what are the figures at present of the number of persons in receipt of State relief in India; whether the relief is given in provisions as pauper relief or providing work, and, if the latter, whether wages are paid for such work; whether the areas of distress are extending; whether the Government of India has made any inquiry into the causes of the distress; whether at present any new legislative proposals are before the Viceroy in Council to deal with such causes, or in providing machinery to more effectively cope with the effects; and, if not, whether, having regard to the seriousness of recurring famine, he will consider the matter and suggest proposals to the Indian Government as a basis of experimental legislation dealing with famine.

MR. MORLEY

; The total number of persons in receipt of relief, according to the latest report, is 1,388,000. For the able bodied, relief is provided in the form of work, for which a suitable wage is paid: other classes receive grants of money or food in their homes or in poorhouses. The number on relief, and the area in which distress is acute, must, I am afraid, be expected to increase until the rains in June or July. It is hardly necessary to say that the Government of India have made full inquiry into the causes of the distress. The Famine Relief Codes, in accordance with which relief is being administered, are the result of accumulated experience, and are subject to revision in the light of further experience. I do not think that I could usefully make suggestions to the Government of India for dealing with the question by experimental legislation,

MR. O'GRADY

Will the result of the inquiries be made public?

MR. MORLEY

I should not think so, but I will make sure.

MR. LUPTON (Lincolnshire, Sleaford)

Is it the fact that when there is great poverty in agricultural districts in India the taxes are still collected by cast iron rule without regard to the particular circumstances of the district?

MR. MORLEY

No, Fir, I do not think so.

MR. SMEATON (Stirlingshire)

Is it not the c. se that in such circumstances the taxes are suspended?

[No Answer was returned.]