HC Deb 09 September 1909 vol 10 c1483
Sir HENRY COTTON

asked the Under-Secretary of State for India whether, under instructions from the Government of Bombay, the sheriff of Bombay has cancelled a notice of a public meeting which had been convened by him, upon an influ-entially-signed requisition, to discuss the position of British-Indians in the Transvaal; and, if so, whether he can say why the instructions of the Government of Bombay were issued to the sheriff?

The MASTER of ELIBANK

The Secretary of State has no official information on the subject. He has seen a report in the Press to the effect stated. The reason given in that report for the decision of the Government of Bombay was that they thought that the passing of the South Africa Union Bill made such a meeting under the auspices of a Government official undesirable.

Sir H. COTTON

Has the hon. Gentleman seen the statement that the order prohibiting this meeting has been withdrawn, and that the meeting will be held on the 17fch of this month?

The MASTER of ELIBANK

No, Sir; I have no official knowledge of that.

Sir H. COTTON

Will the hon. Gentleman make some inquiry?

The MASTER of ELIBANK

Yes.

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