§ 5. Sir J. D. REESasked the Under-Secretary of State for India what is the progress of abatement of distress in the United Provinces; and what are the present prospects in this behalf?
§ 8. Sir G. SCOTT ROBERTSONasked the Under-Secretary of State for India whether he has information concerning the present state of the famine districts of the United Provinces; if so, what is the official forecast of the monsoon; are the people of the higher castes using the relief works to any extent, and, if not, how are they being relieved; is the death-rate rising; is disease unusually prevalent; is there a fair presumption that no one need die of actual starvation; have the people begun to wander in any great number; and can he now give any facts relating to the work done by voluntary non-European organisations in the stricken districts, and the amount of funds at the disposal of those organisations?
§ The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for INDIA (Mr. C. Roberts)The official forecast predicted somewhat unfavourable conditions in Northern India in the first part of the monsoon season. The rains have been slow in establishing themselves, but according to the latest report some rain has now fallen throughout the distressed area. Persons unable to attend relief works are being relieved gratuitously 1066 in considerable numbers. The death-rate is generally normal. No unusual prevalence of disease is reported. It is a fair presumption that no one need die of actual starvation. No such deaths have been reported. There has been little or no observable emaciation, and no aimless wandering. The Government of India have been asked for a report on the voluntary organisations to which the hon. Member refers.
§ Mr. JAMES HOGGEWhat precautions are the Government of India taking in view of this serious state of affairs?
§ Mr. C. ROBERTSThere are provisions for famine relief insurance which are well known to Members of the House.
§ Mr. SPEAKERThe hon. Member had better give notice of that question.