§ Mr. O'GRADYasked whether the Government of Bengal is now subsidising a weekly newspaper published in Bengali; how long the subsidy has been paid; and whether it was granted under a guarantee of a certain minimum circulation or only to secure that Government views should find expression in the columns of the paper?
§ Mr. MONTAGUThe Secretary of State has seen statements on the subject in the Press. He has no further information, but is making inquiry.
§ Mr. O'GRADYIs the hon. Gentleman aware of the fact that this subsidy amounts to £4,166 per annum, that a three months' instalment has already been paid, and that this subsidy holds good, and can he say what steps the Government are prepared to take in view of the fact that the other papers protest very strongly against this subsidy being given?
§ Mr. MONTAGUThe first knowledge of this subsidy which my Department had was when the hon. Member put down his question. As soon as that question was put down we telegraphed to Inda, and I will let the hon. Member have any information we receive.
§ Mr. O'GRADYIn view of the fact that the subsidy is paid out of the general revenue of India itself, what steps can the Secretary of State take to bring the matter before the Government of India itself?
§ Mr. MONTAGUThere has been no official information yet that any subsidy has been paid.