HC Deb 09 March 1931 vol 249 cc780-1
8. Brigadier - General CLIFTON BROWN

asked the Secretary of State for India whether the Indian Princes and their States have been consulted by the Viceroy and informed by him as to his conversations with Gandhi; and whether their rights or treaties are in any way affected by any arrangements that may be come to?

Mr. BENN

So far as I am aware the Princes were not consulted during the progress of the conversations. The answer to the second part of the question is No, Sir.

Brigadier-General BROWN

Is it not possible that some of the rights of the Princes may have been interfered with by arrangements of that sort?

Mr. BENN

That is a repetition of the second part of the question to which I have given an answer.

12. Captain P. MACDONALD

asked the Secretary of State for India what basis of co-operation has now been reached between the Viceroy and Mr. Gandhi; and how it affects the position in relation to the private manufacturers of salt?

Mr. BENN

The hon. and gallant Member's question was answered by the statement issued on Thursday last.

14. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

asked the Secretary of State for India what is the present position with regard to the boycott on British goods; and whether the economic boycott is continuing?

Mr. BENN

The Position was explained in some detail in paragraphs six and seven of the Statement which I read to the House on Thursday last.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

Is the night hon. Gentleman aware that there is some ambiguity with regard to the continuance or otherwise of the economic boycott, and could he give any further information on this subject?

Mr. BENN

I do not think that it would be wise to attempt to amplify the statement as it was printed and read to the House.

Earl WINTERTON

Will the right hon. Gentleman, in view of the approaching Debate, at least ascertain whether the economic boycott is continuing?

Mr. BENN

Of course, the trade figures are constantly under observation and the latest information will be gladly supplied to the House.

Mr. HOLFORD KNIGHT

May we take it that the Indians will be allowed to buy where they choose?

Mr. BROCKWAY

Have Indians not as much right to say "Buy Indian goods" as the British people have to say "Buy British goods"?

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

Is there not a very great difference between that and bringing pressure to bear?

Forward to