§ 12. Mr. THURTLEasked the Under- Secretary of State for India if the Gov ernment of India contemplates under taking the supervision of the education of the nine-year-old Prince of Nabha, son of the ex-Maharaja and Maharanee, irrespective of the wishes of his parents?
§ Earl WINTERTONMy Noble Friend understands that no decision has yet been reached regarding the future education of the Tikka Sahib of Nabha.
§ Mr. THURTLEDo I understand the question is being considered whether the boy's education is to be taken away from the parents and he is to be educated by the Government of India?
§ Earl WINTERTONNo. The hon. Member is to understand that no decision has been reached on the question of the future education of this young Prince. The House will appreciate that, in view of the fact that the administration of Nabha has been taken away from the Maharajah, it is a question of great importance to the future of the State how the young Prince, who will reach his majority in 10 years time, is going to be educated, and that question must naturally be a matter for the consideration and concern of the Government of India.
§ Mr. THURTLEWhen is a decision likely to be reached, and will the Department bear in mind parental rights when they are considering this matter?