§ Mr. CHURCHILL(by Private Notice) asked the Prime Minister whether his attention has been drawn to the contradictory reports from Delhi and in London of the alleged intention of His Majesty's Government to send the Secretary of State for India and the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs on a mission to India in the near future, and whether he has any statement to make to Parliament upon the subject.
§ The PRIME MINISTERI regret that from time to time, and usually in connection with situations which are extremely delicate, baseless rumours appear in news reports. This is a case in point, and I am obliged to the right hon. Gentleman for putting this question. No such decision has been made. The Government have been considering, in consultation with the Viceroy, how best to carry on the negotiations begun here in London, and when arrangements have been completed they will be announced to this House.
§ Mr. CHURCHILLMay I ask the Prime Minister whether he is aware that the statement which he has just made will give rise to a very considerable and widespread feeling of relief and approval throughout the country; and, secondly, whether, in the event of any mission being sent, the House will have the opportunity of discussing beforehand the proposals of the Government, when definite information will have been laid before the House as to the exact scope and purpose of the mission?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI really must hold that in that respect the House has given us our marching orders.
§ Mr. CHURCHILLI cannot possibly allow that statement to pass—[HON. MEMBERS: "Speech!"]—without asking the Prime Minister to define much more exactly what he means by that vague and menacing phrase?
§ Sir N. GRATTAN-DOYLEMay I ask the Prime Minister whether it is his intention to take any action against the authors of these malicious rumours?