§ 5. Mr. TREVELYANasked the Under-Secretary of State for India whether the Governor-General has used his powers, and, if so, what powers, to pass the proposal to double the salt duty which has been twice rejected by the Indian Assembly?
§ Earl WINTERTONthe Indian Finance Bill, containing a Clause raising the rate of salt duty from Rs. 1.4 to Rs. 2.8 per maund, which was rejected by the Legislative Assembly, passed by the Council of State, and again rejected by the 851 Legislative Assembly, has been certified by the Governor-General to be essential for the interests of British India, and accordingly, under Section 67 B of the Government of India Act, becomes an Act of the Indian Legislature. The Governor-General has issued a full statement of his reasons for adopting this course.
§ Colonel WEDGWOODWill the action taken by the Viceroy be open to debate in this House before the legislation takes effect?
§ Earl WINTERTONNo, Sir. Under the provision in question, the Act becomes operative at once, and is now in operation.