HC Deb 28 May 1918 vol 106 cc664-5
36 Colonel WEDGWOOD

asked 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 JARDINE

asked 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 WEDGWOOD

Can 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. MONTAGU

That 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 WEDGWOOD

Can the right hon. Gentleman say when the Cabinet is likely to be able to consider the matter?

Mr. MONTAGU

I am afraid I cannot say.

Mr. JOYNSON-HICKS

Will 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. MONTAGU

The 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. JARDINE

Can the right hon. Gentleman give any indication when the proposals will reach this House?

Mr. MONTAGU

It is only a fortnight since I brought them to this country.

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