HC Deb 02 November 1909 vol 12 cc1642-3
Mr. KEIR HARDIE

asked whether the regulations under the Indian Councils Act have been framed; and when the first election of the new councils in the different provinces will take place?

The MASTER of ELIBANK

The process of settling these Regulations is on the eve of completion. Until they are finally settled and published it cannot be stated when the elections in the different provinces will take place.

Mr. KEIR HARDIE

Will the hon. Gentleman say whether the elections in the Bengal Presidency are likely to take place in January next?

The MASTER of ELIBANK

I would refer my hon. Friend to an answer to a question given on Monday.

Mr. KEIR HARDIE

asked whether gentlemen, otherwise qualified, will be eligible for election to the reformed Indian councils, despite any term of deportation or imprisonment which they may have suffered for political offences?

The MASTER of ELIBANK

For a full statement of the conditions of eligibility I must ask the hon. Member to wait until the Regulations are published; but as regards persons arrested under Regulation III. of 1818, I would refer him to the full and explicit statement made by my right hon. Friend the Secretary to the Treasury on 26th April during the Report stage of the Bill.

Mr. KEIR HARDIE

It still holds good.