5. Sir J. D. REESasked the Secretary of State for India whether, under Lord Meston's award, non-Brahmins receive 28 out of 65 elective seats in the Provincial Legislative Council of the Madras Presidency; and whether this award has been accepted by him and becomes operative when the Government of India Amendment Act comes into force?
§ Mr. MONTAGUThe first part of the question is correct, according to the telegraphic information I have received from the Government of India. The award will become operative when it is embodied in rules under the Act and the rules have received the approval of Parliament.
§ 11. Colonel YATEasked the Secretary of State for India if he proposes to take any action on the memorial submitted to the Governor-General in Council by the Madras Zamindars' and Landowners' Association regarding the inadequate representation proposed for the zamindars of the Madras Presidency in all the three councils to be constituted under the Reform Act; whether he is aware of the desirability of adequately interesting this loyal class in the new reforms; and whether he has himself received representations on the subject?
§ Mr. MONTAGUI have not seen the memorial referred to, but have received telegraphic representations from three Madras landholders on the subject. The draft rules have not yet reached this country.