§ 13. Sir J. D. REESasked what extra charges would be imposed upon the revenues of British India if the proposals of the Government of India, consequent on the removal of the capital to Delhi, of duplicating the office of Director of Commercial Intelligence was carried into effect; and whether there was any ground for this proposal other than such as arose from the transfer of the capital?
§ Mr. MONTAGUThe Secretary of State has no official knowledge of the scheme referred to by the hon. Member. He is 677 aware that the Government of India have Invited an expression of opinion from the Chambers of Commerce on certain suggestions for reorganising the Commercial Intelligence Department, but he has seen no estimate of the cost. As regards the second part of the question it is understood that the Government of India consider that owing to the growth of trade and commerce in all parts of India a reorganisation of the Department is required. The Secretary of State at present reserves his opinion on the scheme in all respects.
§ Sir J. D. REESHad the Secretary of State or the Government of India proposed any such action until the change in the capital had been decided upon?
§ Mr. MONTAGUI do not think I can add anything to the answer I have given.
§ Mr. G. LLOYDHas this reorganisation scheme anything whatever to do with the transfer of the capital to Delhi?
§ Mr. MONTAGUIt may be taken as having regard to the general development of trade and other considerations.