§ 36 Colonel WEDGWOODasked the Secretary of State for India whether, and, if so, when he will make a statement as to the Constitution reforms that he contemplates proposing for India?
§ 38. Sir JOHN JARDINEasked the Secretary for India whether, and when, he will inform the House of any proposals he may intend to make regarding the form of government in India; and if he will make a statement on that question?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for INDIA (Mr. Montagu)The Viceroy and I are presenting to the Prime Minister a Report containing our proposals as to the steps which should, in our opinion, be taken in fulfilment of the announcement of the 20th August. At this stage, therefore, I am not in a position to make any statement.
§ Colonel WEDGWOODCan the right hon. Gentleman assure the House that we shall have an opportunity of debating this question, in view of the enormous importance of the matter?
§ Mr. MONTAGUThat question, I think, should be addressed to the Leader of the House. At the present stage the Prime Minister and the Cabinet must have an opportunity of considering the matter.
§ Colonel WEDGWOODCan the right hon. Gentleman say when the Cabinet is likely to be able to consider the matter?
§ Mr. MONTAGUI am afraid I cannot say.
§ Mr. JOYNSON-HICKSWill the right hon. Gentleman give an undertaking not to put into operation any reforms, either by Order in Council or by Royal Proclamation, without bringing a Bill into this House?
§ Mr. MONTAGUThe announcement of the 20th August pledged the Government to publish for criticism any proposals which might ultimately be laid before Parliament, and that pledge will be strictly observed.
§ Sir J. JARDINECan the right hon. Gentleman give any indication when the proposals will reach this House?
§ Mr. MONTAGUIt is only a fortnight since I brought them to this country.