HC Deb 07 March 1910 vol 14 cc1151-2
Mr. G. A. LLOYD

asked what steps, if any, the Government are at present taking to carry into practice the recommendations of the Treasury Committee appointed to consider the organisation of Oriental studies in London; whether they have made any proposals or given any assistance with regard to the provision of the necessary buildings; whether they propose to financially assist in carrying out the committee's recommendations; and, if not, what hopes can they hold out for the completion in the near future of the general scheme outlined by the Committee?

Mr. MONTAGU

The Secretary of State for India has appointed a Committee, over which the Earl of Cromer has consented to preside, to prepare a detailed scheme for the institution of a School of Oriental Languages, upon the lines recommended in the Report of Lord Reay's Committee. The Committee will include, besides the chairman, Lord Curzon, the Lord Mayor, Sir Charles Hardinge, Sir Charles Lyall, and Dr. Frank Heath, Director of Special Inquiries and Reports to the Board of Education. The answers to the other questions will partly depend on the scheme, when it is prepared.

Mr. REES

May I ask how, if no money grant is made this year, it will be possible to do anything in the new financial year?

Mr. MONTAGU

It is premature to discuss making a grant of money before the scheme has been decided upon.

Mr. GEORGE LLOYD

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that the Committee have already asked for a sum of money?

Mr. MONTAGU

Lord Reay's Committee did not furnish a detailed scheme on which it would be possible to start the school in question.

Mr. GEORGE LLOYD

Will the hon Gentleman allocate that sum of money which Lord Reay's Committee said would be initially necessary?

Mr. MONTAGU

That matter must be postponed until this Committee just appointed has completed its work.

Sir WILLIAM COLLINS

May I ask the hon. Gentleman whether the work will be entrusted to the University of London?

Mr. MONTAGU

That also is one of the points deferred until this Committee has completed its work.