§ 71. Mr. KELLYasked the Under-Secretary of State for India the total cost of the inquiry conducted by the Butler Committee into the questions concerning the relationship of the Indian Princes and the Paramount Power; whether this sum is to be borne out of the revenues of British India without any contribution from the revenues of the Indian States; and whether an opportunity has been given to the Central Indian Legislature to consider this item of expenditure?
§ Earl WINTERTONThe total expenditure incurred in connection with the Committee is estimated to amount to about £16,000. The answer to the second part of the question is in the affirmative. As regards the last part, the expenditure has been classed as non-voted under Section 67A of the Government of India Act, and is therefore not subject to the vote of the Indian Legislative Assembly.
§ Mr, KELLYHas any approach been made to the Indian Legislature as to bearing some part of this cost?
§ Earl WINTERTONNo, because the matter is, as I say, classed as non-voted under Section 67A of the Government of India Act. Therefore, there would be no reason to approach the Legislature.
§ Earl WINTERTONIt is a question of the interpretation of the Act. That is a matter for the decision of the appropriate authorities.
§ Earl WINTERTONAny constitutional lawyer.