HC Deb 06 August 1919 vol 119 c330
2. Mr. FREDERICK ROBERTS

asked the Secretary of State for India whether the Indian Army Commission will inquire into the grievances of the Indian section of the. Army and of Indians generally with regard to the military policy of the Government; why no Indian is appointed a member of the Commission; whether the omission will be made good before the Commission commence their work; whether the right hon. Gentleman is aware of the strength of the Indian feeling against Sir Michael O'Dwyer for his recent administrative acts in the Punjab; and why he has been appointed a member in the face of such feeling?

The SECRETARY of STATE for INDIA (Mr. Montagu)

Under the terms of reference the Committee is concerned with general questions of military administration and organisation, not with grievances; but I am considering the appointment of an Indian member. I do not see that recent administrative acts in the Punjab have any bearing on this inquiry.

4. Captain ORMSBY-GORE

asked the Secretary of State for India why no Indian has been appointed on Lord Esher's Committee on the Indian Army?

Mr. MONTAGU

The appointment of an Indian to the Committee on the Army in India is under consideration.

Colonel YATE

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider the question of the taking of evidence from Indian officers now at Hampton Court, as there are some there who could give most valuable evidence before the Committee?

Mr. MONTAGU

I am obliged for the suggestion, and will communicate it to the Chairman of the Committee.

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