Dr. RUTHERFORDasked whether the Government of India has yet reported to the Secretary of State regarding the nine gentlemen deported from Bengal in December last; and whether he is now in a position to inform the House when these subjects of the King, who have never been charged or tried, shall enjoy their freedom?
§ Mr. J. D. REESBefore the hon. Gentleman answers that question, may I ask I him if he is in a position to tell the House to what use these gentlemen are likely to put their freedom when they are allowed to enjoy it?
The MASTER of ELIBANKThe Secretary of State has not yet received a report from the Government of India on these cases. He is not yet in a position to make any statement as regards the latter part of the question.
§ Sir WILLIAM COLLINSMay I ask the hon. Gentleman whether these deported persons have yet been enabled to utilise the powers secured to them under the Ordinance of 1818 for making representations as to the grounds of their deportation by being informed of the grounds?
The MASTER of ELIBANKI am afraid I can add nothing to the statement made in this House by the Secretary of State, and also to the statement made in my own speech on the Indian Budget.