§ 41. Major POLEasked the Under- Secretary of State for the Colonies whether the proposals of the Government of Ceylon to make the possession of a certificate of permanent settlement and the renunciation of the protection of the Government of India by Indian emigrants essential conditions of eligibility to vote in the elections for the Ceylon Legislature have been sanctioned by the Secretary of State; and whether the Government of India were consulted in regard to these proposals before they were finally agreed upon?
§ Dr. SHIELSThe attitude of the Secretary of State towards the proposals of the Governor is indicated in his despatch of the 10th of October which has been presented to Parliament. It is not the case that the Governor's proposals make the possession of a certificate of permanent settlement and the renunciation of the protection of the Government of India essential conditions of eligibility to vote. Indians domiciled in Ceylon would be entitled, under his proposal, to be registered as voters without such conditions. His Majesty's Government will, however, consider the views expressed by the Government of India in the matter before a final decision is reached.