§ 1. Major GLYNasked the Secretary of State for India whether he will consider the advisability of at once establishing at the India Office an inquiry bureau where Indians arriving in this country for various educational and technical courses can readily be supplied with the necessary information and help to assist them as to the best steps they should take to attain their objects; and whether the lack of this official help leads many Indians to consult undesirable authorities, who often give bad advice, consequently causing considerable misgiving and discontent?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for INDIA (Mr. Montagu)A bureau of information for Indian students, such as the hon. and gallant Member suggests, has been established in London for the last 11 years. It is in close touch with the universities and technical institutions, and every effort has been made to make its existence known in India. But, of course, no Indian student is under any obligation to seek its advice. The bureau, which is at 21, Cromwell Road, has recently been transferred to the control of the High Commissioner for India.
§ Major GLYNThe point of my question is whether a branch of this office 1854 should not be at the India Office, in order that these Indians, who naturally go to the India Office, may get the necessary information.
§ Mr. MONTAGUI do not think it would be a wise course to identify this bureau too closely with the India Office. Perhaps my hon. and gallant Friend will visit the bureau at 21, Cromwell Road, and also discuss the question with the High Commissioner.
Sir J. D. REESDoes the right hon. Gentleman know that these Indians particularly object to being officially grand-mothered?