81. Sir H. ROBERTSasked the Under-Secretary of State for India whether, with reference to the statement showing the buildings and sites which are used in the different provinces of India in connection 1488 with the manufacture of liquor, he is in a position to give information as to the rent charged and the conditions imposed in the lease of distilleries owned by the Government; whether he can state approximately the cost to the Government of the sites and buildings leased to distillers; and whether these buildings can be used for any other purpose should the premises be not required for distilling purposes?
§ Mr. C. ROBERTSThe rents charged and the conditions imposed in the leases referred to vary in different provinces and districts in India. I have no reason to suppose that the buildings and sites in question are of any great value, or that the terms of lease are unduly favourable to the lessees. I fear, however, that precise information on this and the last two parts of the question cannot be obtained without calling for a detailed report, which the Secretary of State does not see his way to ask the Government of India to undertake in the present pressure of work.
§ Sir J. D. REESIs it to be inferred from the answer of the hon. Gentleman that drastic proposals are under consideration for India similar to those which have been so universally condemned in the United Kingdom?
§ Mr. C. ROBERTSI do not think that arises out of the question.