HC Deb 06 April 1925 vol 182 cc1797-8
7 and 8. Mr. THURTLE

asked the Under-Secretary of State for India (1) if he can hold out any hope of an early suspension of the operation of the Bengal Ordinance;

(2) what action the Government proposes to take in relation to the recent public statement of the Swarajist leader, Mr. C. R. Das, denouncing methods of violence?

Earl WINTERTON

With the hon. Member's permission I will answer these questions together. My Noble Friend has already welcomed Mr. Das's dissociation of himself and his party from a policy of violence. But he has so far seen only Press reports of Mr. Das's utterances. If, as he hopes, Mr. Das now makes constructive proposals which obtain the support of the Government of Bengal and the Government of India, His Majesty's Government, so far as they are concerned, will give them their sympathetic consideration.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

May I ask the Noble Lord whether he has seen in the Press to-day a suggestion by Mr. Das that he and Mr. Gandhi should come over here in order to consult with the India Office at the same time as the Viceroy is being consulted, and whether he will give that favourable consideration?

Earl WINTERTON

This is a situation where, as a result of the events here and in India, it is obvious that a better understanding is hoped for. I am sure that the right hon. and gallant Gentleman will understand that no good will be done by any hasty or ill-considered reply by me in this House. If the right hon. and gallant Gentleman wants information I must ask him to give notice.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

Does the Noble Lord realise that this change of atmosphere can best be used by a joint meeting such as is now suggested?

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

Arising out of the last answer, may we take it that this change of policy will be met on our part by the greatest possible political liberty being given in the circumstances?

Earl WINTERTON

I think that my answer very clearly deals with that. The hon. and gallant Gentleman must realise that there are situations in which, to say the least of it, it would be most inconvenient that answers should be given to this House without notice.