§ MR. O'GRADYI beg to ask the Under-Secretary of State for India whether the Government of India are aware of the feeling of irritation and disappointment general in India at the schemes for enlarging the Legislative Council by the admission of non-representative members, with a preponderance of the official element, and the forming of 916 a council of notables, now under the consideration of the Secretary of State; and whether in view of the opposition, of even the Moderates, to such proposals, he can assure this House that opportunity for discussing the proposals will be afforded prior to their being put into operation.
§ MR. BUCHANANThe Government of India have taken steps to acquaint themselves fully with the general opinion on the proposals published in August last. The matter is still under the consideration of that Government, and until the Secretary of State in Council has come to a decision on their recommendations, when submitted to him, my hon. friend will agree that it is not possible at this stage to give the assurance he asks for.