HC Deb 02 July 1914 vol 64 cc542-3
90. Sir J. D. REES

asked the Under-Secretary of State for India whether, in view of the need for Indian labour in Assam and the determination of the authorities not to accept such labour in Canada, the Secretary of State will inquire whether the Government of India is prepared to advise the Government of Madras to withdraw existing restrictions upon migration from that Presidency to Assam?

The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for INDIA (Mr. C. Roberts)

The Madras Government have promised to consider the possibility of extending the area in which recruitment for Assam is allowed. But their decision could not affect or be effected by the refusal of Canada to admit Indian emigrants.

Sir J. D. REES

But is not the Canadian question relevant, when labour is wanted in Assam, is available in India, but is not obtainable by the planter?

Mr. C. ROBERTS

Because the Madrasi population of the Agency Tracts do not want to go to Canada, and the Punjabi Sikhs do not want to go to Assam.

Sir J. D. REES

But are not the hill-men ready to go to Assam if not prevented—that is the point?

Mr. C. ROBERTS

The question, so far as Madras is concerned, is being considered on its merits.