§ 5. Brigadier-General CLIFTON BROWNasked the Secretary of State for India what are the means by which the Government of India and the provincial administrations ensure publicity for their policy and correct the mis-statements spread among the Indian peoples; and whether any efforts are being made through Indian schools or otherwise to educate them in the advantages that have accrued to India from the British Raj?
§ Mr. BENNThe policy of Governments is made public in India as elsewhere in the first place by speeches and resolutions in the Legislatures and by special announcements. These and other forms of information are made available by information bureaux maintained by the Government of India and most of the provincial administrations, which on occasion distribute official news sheets specially prepared to meet the requirements of the province or the district. In addition it is one of the functions of District Officers to represent the Government's policy informally in conversation and otherwise. As to schools the hon. and gallant Member will he aware that education is a provincial transferred subject and it is not possible to give any complete answer to the second part of the question without making special inquiries of each Local Government.
Brigadier-General BROWNSince the matter was raised last week, has the right hon. Gentleman's attention been called to a letter from the late Director of Public Information making various useful suggestions as to how information could be better disseminated, and will he give that matter his earnest consideration?
§ Mr. BENNYes, I have seen letters from Professor Coatman and Professor Rushbrook Williams, and they are being considered.
§ Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYIs the right hon. Gentleman satisfied that our case is being presented to the Indian people?
§ Mr. BENNI have given particulars as to the machinery which exists and which is being used as opportunity allows.