HC Deb 17 February 1919 vol 112 cc535-6
23. Sir J. D. REES

asked the Secretary of State for India whether he can give the House any information as to the date on which the Bill dealing with reforms in Indian administration will be introduced?

Mr. MONTAGU

I hope this Session. But the precise date depends largely on the time when the Government receive the Reports from the Committees which are now investigating certain questions connected with the proposed reforms. I can assure my hon. Friend that no avoidable delay will be allowed to occur in the introduction of the Bill.

Mr. WATERSON

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether the principle of self-determination will be given to India when this reform is brought about?

Mr. MONTAGU

The policy on which the Bill will be founded is the policy of the 20th August, 1917, as announced in this House.

Mr. JOYNSON-HICKS

Will the right hon. Gentleman undertake to lay the Reports of the Committees on the Table of the House before he brings in the Bill?

Mr. MONTAGU

I hope to give the House all the information they require. It is absolutely essential that they should have these Reports.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

When does the right hon. Gentleman expect to have these Reports—during next month?

Mr. MONTAGU

I am informed that the two Committees are making progress. I hope to receive their Reports within the next two months, but I cannot say the precise date.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

That will be too late for legislation this year.

Mr. MONTAGU

Oh, no!