HC Deb 27 April 1909 vol 4 cc173-4
Mr. CATHCART WASON (on behalf of Mr. Rees)

asked whether persons deported by the Government of India, under Regulation III. of 1818, received regular medical attendance and were provided with everything which the Government medical officer, empowered in this behalf, certified to be necessary to their present comfort and speedy recovery from any illnesses from which any or all of such persons were suffering; and whether, if peace and quiet now prevailed in the districts in which such persons formerly resided, the Government of India would duly consider whether such peace and quiet were likely to continue to prevail in such districts if such persons were prematurely released?

Mr. HOBHOUSE

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative; as to the second part, the Government of India will no doubt consider the point mentioned, when the proper time comes.

Mr. MACKARNESS

asked the Under-Secretary of State for India whether information had reached the Secretary of State that in a recent debate in the Viceroy's Legislative Council the Hon. Mr. Gokhale made an urgent appeal to the Government of India to restore to their homes the nine British subjects who were deported in December without charge or trial, on the grounds that the situation was rapidly improving; that it would give great satisfaction throughout the country, and that it would be a bare act of justice to men, some of whom he knew to be of the highest character; and whether he could state what reply was given to Mr. Gokhale's appeal?

Mr. HOBHOUSE

The Secretary of State has seen a report of the speech referred to; the reply was to the effect that the Government, who had the fullest information, were the best judges as to the necessities of the case. The Government refused to admit either that they had acted on unreliable information or that there was any error at all in their action.

Mr. MACKARNESS

Has the Secretary of State any reason to doubt Mr. Gokhale's statement that the condition of things is rapidly improving?

Mr. HOBHOUSE

I do not know; perhaps the hon. Member will put down a question on the point.