§ 21. Colonel HOWARD-BURYasked the Secretary of State for India whether his attention has been called to the Congress campaign in the Rae Bareli district, urging the peasants not to pay their land dues and rents; and whether the Government of India are taking any steps to prevent these illegal activities?
§ Mr. BENNYes, Sir. I have, however, no precise information as to the action taken in the Rae Bareli district, although I have been informed that it has recently been necessary to take action under the ordinary law against persons who encourage the non-payment of rent in some districts in the United Provinces.
§ Colonel HOWARD-BURYIs it not the fact that the Deputy-Commissioner tried to prevent this campaign, but has been ordered by the Government of India to discontinue his efforts and allow these agitators to continue their campaign?
§ Mr. BENNI do not know on what evidence the hon. and gallant Member bases that statement, but I cannot for one moment accept it, nor is it supported by any evidence in my possession.
§ Colonel HOWARD-BURYWill the right hon. Gentleman read "The Times" of to-day, where he will see an account of the matter?
§ Mr. MACQUISTENAre the land dues which these peasants are told not to pay the equivalent of the Land Value Tax in this country?