§ 66. Sir J. D. REESasked what action has been taken on the representations made to the Governor-General in Council by the opium traders of Malwa; whether the formerly open Indian markets of Berar, Bombay and Madras presidencies, Guzerat, and the Central Provinces are still closed to the sale of Malwa opium; whether the only offer made is the pur- 45 chase by tender of 11,060 chests, which is only about a quarter of the accumulated stocks; and, if so, what objection exists to opening the markets closed in 1908 to Malwa opium, or purchasing the Malwa stocks at a fair price, or allowing the export of such stocks to the Straits Settlements, to which the produce of Behar alone [...]s at present exported?
§ Mr. MONTAGUThe Secretary of State has seen the memorial to which the hon. Member refers, but he is not aware that the Government of India has as yet passed orders upon it. He has telegraphed to India for information.