47. Lieut. - Colonel Sir FREDERICK HALLasked the Prime Minister whether the statement of the Secretary of Stale for India as to the desirability of the Imperial Government getting into closer touch with the Non-Co-operation party in India was made with the approval of the Cabinet; if he will state whether the Government propose to take action in the direction of an extension of Home Rule in India; and when he proposes to make a statement as to the Government's policy in this matter?
§ The LORD PRIVY SEAL (Mr. Clynes)I am not aware that the Secretary of State for India has made any statement in the language set out in the hon. and gallant Member's question. My noble Friend, with the approval of his colleagues in the Government, said in another place, on the 26th February last that His Majesty's Government were earnestly desirous of availing themselves of any disposition towards effective con sultation, and were open to consider any practical proposals for establishing closer contact and betters understanding. In reply to the second part of the question, the Government are not at present prepared to make any proposals for action in the direction of an extension of Home Rule in India.
§ Lieut.-Colonel HOWARD-BURYIs this an example of the new methods of the Government communicating Cabinet decisions to the people in India?
§ Mr. CLYNESIt is not.
§ Viscount CURZONAre we to understand that the Government view with approval the action of the Secretary of State in communicating direct with this extremist leader in India?
§ Mr. CLYNESMy Noble Friend has not made any statement in the language set out in the question.