§ 21. Sir J. D. REESasked the Secretary of State for India whether the Government of India has recommended the abolition of the indentured labour system; and, if so, whether the Secretary of State has disposed of such recommendation?
§ Mr. C. ROBERTS: (Comptroller of the Household)My right hon. Friend has asked me to reply to this question. He has recently received a communication from the Government of India dealing with the objections entertained to the pre sent system under which labour goes from India to the Colonies, and with its disadvantages, and outlining suggestions for a possible solution of these difficulties. The question is still in a preliminary stage and requires further consultation of the Government of India, as well as of other authorities interested in the matter. 42 My right hon. Friend will not, therefore, be able to make any definite statement regarding it for some time.
§ Sir J. D. REESCan the hon. Gentleman say whether the solution indicated was the abolition of the system?
§ Mr. ROBERTSThe Secretary of State says that he cannot make any further statement than that he has already made in the answer for some time.