HC Deb 29 October 1908 vol 195 cc479-80
DR. RUTHERFORD (Middlesex, Brentford)

I beg to ask the Under-Secretary of State for India what was the cost to Hindus, Mahomedans, Sikhs, Jains, Buddhists, and Animists for the upkeep of Anglican and Roman bishops, priests, structures, and cemeteries for 1906–7 and 1907–8; and whether the Government of India contemplate adding to the Indians burden by putting Presbyterian divines, structures, and cemeteries on the Indian Exchequer.

MR. BUCHANAN

The last figures available are those for 1906–7, which are contained in a Return issued on 3rd March last. The total cost of the Ecclesiastical Establishments in India for that year was about £153,000. The cost of the Presbyterian Establishment is included in the above total.

MR. HAROLD COX (Preston)

Can the hon. Gentleman say how many belong to the Presbyterians?

MR. BUCHANAN

I cannot say.

DR. RUTHERFORD

Will the hon. Gentleman answer the last part of the Question?

*MR. REES

Is the Under-Secretary aware that the natives of India respect Christians for respecting Christianity?