HC Deb 21 April 1915 vol 71 c263
22. Mr. KING

asked the Under-Secretary of State for India, with reference to the Viceroy's statement, made at Delhi on 25th March, that a modification of the law by which one House of Parliament can veto the creation of an executive council in India is absolutely necessary, whether this view has been officially communicated to the India Office; whether it is shared by His Majesty's Government; and what action the Government propose to take?

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

In answer to the first part of the question the Government of India have not made an official communication to the Secretary of State, but my Noble Friend is in possession of the Viceroy's views. With reference to the proposal to set up an Executive Council in the United Provinces, the Secretary of State has nothing to add to a statement which he authorised to be published on 20th March last.

Sir J. REES

Will the Secretary of State take into account the profound satisfaction which the action taken in another place has given in responsible quarters in India?

Mr. ROBERTS

I see no evidence of that whatever.

Sir J. REES

Is it that the hon. Gentleman underrates the importance of the official and commercial classes, or that he has not established proof?

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