§ 48. Sir J. D. REESasked whether the right hon. Gentleman is aware that the hon. Member for Leicester attended a meeting of international Socialists at Paris last week, which was also attended by Austrian, German, and Russian representatives of revolutionary Socialism, who denounced war in general and the war in the Balkans in particular; and whether he considers the appointment of the said hon. Member to the Indian Public Services Commission desirable, in view of the effect his participation in its deliberations and decisions is likely to have upon Mahomedans and Hindus, as well as British, Mahomedan, and Hindu members of the public services?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI know nothing beyond what appears in the Press of the meeting referred to. The fact that it was attended by the hon. Member for Leicester does not seem to me to have any-bearing on his appointment to the Indian Commission.
§ Sir J. D. REESWill the right hon. Gentleman consider the effect which the selection of a gentleman holding these views must have upon the peoples, ruling chiefs and the public service in India?
§ The PRIME MINISTERAs far as I can make out the view expressed by my hon. Friend was merely in favour of the general abolition of war.
§ Sir J. D. REESIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the gentlemen who organise and attended this meeting were (he chosen representatives of revolutionary socialism?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI know nothing about the matter only what I have read in the Press. Perhaps the hon. Member will furnish me with the information.
§ Mr. SWIFT MacNEILLWill the right hon. Gentleman select some gentleman who at different periods of his life has represented all religions and all politics?
§ Mr. SPEAKERThe hon. Member is now dealing with personal questions and we cannot allow these personal matters to occupy be much time.