HC Deb 31 October 1911 vol 30 cc691-2
EARL of RONALDSHAY

asked if it is the intention of the Indian Government to abolish the post of Inspector-General of Archæology in India; and, if so, will he state on what grounds it is proposed to do so?

Mr. RAMSAY MACDONALD

asked whether the Government of India still proposes to abolish the office of Director-General of the Archaeological Survey of India, and to take other steps to diminish the activities of the survey?

Mr. MONTAGU

The Director-General of Archaeology is one of several inspecting officers attached to the central government whose services the Government of India are disposed to think might be dispensed with. The grounds are the promotion of the policy of decentralising the administration, and of effecting economies. The whole question is at present under the consideration of the Secretary of State in Council.

EARL of RONALDSHAY

Might I ask the hon. Gentleman if he will impress upon the Government of India the fact that the work carried out by Mr. Marshall meets with universal approval and has been carried out at a very small cost?

Mr. MONTAGU

The Government of India made these recommendations to the Secretary of State, and it is for him to decide whether he will sanction or refuse to sanction the proposals. The considerations the Noble Lord mentions will, of course, with others, have attention.

Mr. MALCOLM

May I ask whether the idea of this abolition proceeded originally from London or from the Vice-regal Council?

Mr. MONTAGU

The Government of India suggested the abolition of several inspectorships, including the Director-General of Archaeology.

Mr. RAMSAY MACDONALD

Might I ask for an answer to the latter part of my question: whether this involves any diminution in the activities of the survey?

Mr. MONTAGU

It would involve a curtailment of expenditure on archæology in India.

Mr. ASHLEY

Supposing sanction is given by the Home Government, who will perform the duties of the post which is to be abolished?

Mr. MONTAGU

That is a hypothetical question. If the post is abolished and nothing is substituted for it, the duties will not be performed.