§ 59. Mr. MAXTONasked the Under-Secretary of State for India whether the closing of the Gilgit Pass has been decided by the Government of India; and, if so, the reason for its being closed?
§ The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for INDIA (Earl Winterton)I am not aware of any decision of the nature suggested. But the number of travellers that can be allowed to use the Gilgit route has to be strictly limited to avoid putting an undue strain on local resources in the way of supply and transport.
§ Mr. MAXTONIs the decision in this matter taken by the Government of India or by the local authorities?
§ Earl WINTERTONIt is taken by the Government of India, and, as far as I know, no fresh decision has been taken recently. The reason for the fact stated in the question is, I am sure, one with which the hon. Member will sympathise, namely, to prevent an undue strain being put on the local inhabitants in the way of supply and transport.