HC Deb 06 July 1915 vol 73 cc196-7
35. Mr. KING

asked the Prime Minister whether he can now redeem the promise made on 6th August, 1914, that the East India Revenue Accounts would be discussed early in the present Session?

Mr. LLOYD GEORGE (for the Prime Minister)

I have consulted my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for India in reference to my hon. Friend's suggestion. We do not think that any public purpose would be served by attempting to take the ordinary discussion on the East India Revenue Accounts under the present extraordinary circumstances.

Mr. KING

Are we to assume, therefore, that no East India Revenue Accounts at all will come up for discussion this Session, and that there will be no day for it?

Mr. LLOYD GEORGE

I can only give the hon. Gentleman what the Prime Minister says on the subject. I suggest that he should speak to my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for India on the subject.

Sir J. D. REES

Without questioning the decision, may I ask if there is not a statutory obligation to bring the Accounts before the Houses of Parliament?

Mr. LLOYD GEORGE

I am informed that there is no statutory obligation.