§ 2. Colonel Sir C. YATEasked the Secretary of State for India, whether he is aware that in the attack on the police post at Chauri Chaura on 4th February, when 22 policemen were murdered, soaked with oil, and burnt, by a mob led by Gandhi volunteers, the police when first attacked fired in the air, the only effect of which was to infuriate the mob, who at once closed in with lathis and spears; and, if so, will he give orders that all firing in the air is to be prohibited in future?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for WAR (Sir Laming Worthington-Evans)I am aware of the fact. The standing orders for the conduct of the police throughout India strictly prohibit firing in the air, and the Government of India have called the attention of local governments to these orders.