HC Deb 03 March 1921 vol 138 cc2009-10
41. Major GLYN

asked the Prime Minister whether any decision has been arrived at as to whether the protectorate of Aden is to remain under the India Office and the Government of India or whether, under the present changed circumstances, the Colonial Office will assume responsibility?

The PRIME MINISTER

I would refer my hon. and gallant Friend to the answer given on Monday last to a question by my hon. and gallant Friend the Member for Stafford.

Major GLYN

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether, pending the decision of the Cabinet concerning the Aden protectorate, urgent matters may be referred direct to London and not to the Government of India?

The PRIME MINISTER

It is under the Colonial Office.

Mr. ORMSBY-GORE

Did not the Secretary of State for India inform me yesterday that the Government of India had not assented to the transfer to the Colonial Office, and that the matter was still under consideration at Delhi?

The PRIME MINISTER

I only know the decision of the Cabinet. Perhaps no reply had been received from the Government of India. I was not aware of that.