§ Mr. O'GRADYasked the Under-Secretary of State for India whether he is aware that seven of the nine Indian gentlemen deported in December of last year took no part in politics prior to the partition of Bengal, and that the remaining two, Messrs. Krishna and Aswini Kumar, are known for their educational and religious work and not for their political opinions; and whether, having regard to these facts, representations will be made to the Government of India that the case of these deportees should be reconsidered with respect to their present detention?
§ Mr. HOBHOUSEThe Secretary of State does not consider that the circumstances alleged in the question would, if correctly stated, constitute a reason for taking the action suggested.
§ Mr. F. C. MACKARNESSMay I ask whether it is a fact that a petition has been presented during the last few weeks with regard to one of the gentlemen named, to the Viceroy, and will the hon. Gentleman say what is the consequence of that petition?
§ Mr. HOBHOUSEI understand that a petition of the nature which has been indicated has been so presented, and the Viceroy will deal with it entirely at his own discretion.
§ Mr. MACKARNESSHas any answer been given?
§ Mr. HOBHOUSEI cannot answer that question without notice.