§ 11. Sir S. HOAREasked the Secretary of State for India whether it is proposed to transfer further provincial services under the Devolution Rules; and, if so, which services?
§ Mr. BENNAs the right hon. and gallant Member is aware, the Prime Minister undertook that inquiry would be made as regards the possibility of introducing by administrative act changes which would not necessitate amendment of the Government of India Act. No decisions have yet been taken, but, as the right hon. and gallant Member is aware, the provisions of Section 129A of the Government of India Act require that important matters coming under this head should be brought directly to the notice of Parliament.
§ Sir S. HOAREDo I understand that, before coming to a decision, we shall have an opportunity of discussing it here?
§ Mr. BENNYes. The action taken of a major kind in this connection is subject to the provisions in Section 129A, to which I referred the right hon. Gentleman.
Earl WINTERTONDoes the right hon. Gentleman mean that he will not avail himself of the right under Section 45A of making a transference without notice?
§ Mr. BENNThat is a technical matter on which I am insufficiently informed to answer, but the major matters to which section 129A is applicable will be dealt with strictly in accordance with the Section.