HC Deb 27 June 1922 vol 155 cc1814-5
7. Mr. HOGGE

asked the Under-Secretary of State for India what steps he proposes to take to ensure that equality of treatment is given to all services and to all European Government servants in India?

Earl WINTERTON

Perhaps the hon. Member would be so good as to indicate in what respects he considers that inequality of treatment exists and should be remedied.

Mr. HOGGE

Is there not a difference between the ordinary Civil Service and the Indian Medical Service?

Earl WINTERTON

There are and always have been differences, but I am not sure what is the specific difference to which the hon. Gentleman alludes.

Mr. HOGGE

Will my Noble Friend consider putting the Indian Medical Service on the same terms of equality with regard to pensions and commutation as members of the ordinary Indian Civil Service?

Earl WINTERTON

My hon. Friend is aware that members of the Indian Medical Service are not the only ones affected in that respect. I will consider the whole matter.

Lieut.-Colonel FREMANTLE

Will the Noble Lord consider this matter from the point of view of the absolute difference between white and black in attending on white patients?

Earl WINTERTON

That is a very big question and one very difficult to answer at Question Time. I referred to it in my speech the other day. The whole matter, however, is receiving the earnest consideration of my Noble Friend.