§ Viscount CASTLEREAGHasked the Under-Secretary of State for India whether the Member for Commerce and Industry in the Governor-General's Executive Council of India has already been selected; and, if so, will he give the name of the person elected?
§ Mr. MONTAGUNo appointment has yet been made. I may add that members of the Executive Council of the Governor-General are appointed by the Crown on the recommendation of the Secretary of State for India. Subject to statutory limitations, the Secretary of State reserves entire freedom of selection, and undertakes full responsibility.
§ Viscount CASTLEREAGHCan the hon. Gentleman say when this post is likely to be filled up?
§ Mr. MONTAGUShortly. I cannot say exactly.
§ Earl WINTERTONWill the hon. Gentleman take into consideration the case of Mr. Dowd, and not make any appointment against the best Indian opinion?
§ Sir HENRY CRAIKIs it not a fact that there are statutory provisions with respect to the appointments which require that a servant so appointed should have served, in the public service in India for a certain number of years?
§ Mr. MONTAGUThere are certain statutory provisions, but the hon. Member has not stated them accurately.