§ Mr. O'GRADYasked (1) when final Orders on the case of provincial engineers, which has been under consideration for nearly four years, are likely to be passed; and why, in view of the fact that the Government of India's dispatch on the subject was transmitted to this country so far back as August last year, steps have not yet been taken to effect an early settlement of the case; and (2) whether he will now lay the complete Papers in connection with the case of provincial engineers upon the Table of this House?
§ Mr. MONTAGUIt is not possible to state exactly when a decision will be reached on this very difficult and complicated case. The Secretary of State in Council has already passed Orders sanctioning certain increases of pay which will, he hopes, satisfy those interested; but has found it necessary to reserve other parts of the Government of India's proposals for 1141 further consideration. The matter will be expedited so far as possible. Until a final decision is reached on all the issues involved, the Secretary of State is not prepared to consider the question of laying Papers.