§ 1. Major DESPENCER-ROBERTSONasked the Secretary of State for India whether he is aware that British subjects are debarred from owning land in the State of Kashmir, although this right is possessed by Kashmiri subjects in India, and that in several recent cases British subjects have been arbitrarily deprived of lands which they had leased; and whether negotiations can be commenced for the purpose of ensuring that British subjects resident in, or carrying on their business in, Kashmir, shall enjoy all such privileges as are granted to Kashmiri subjects resident in British India?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for INDIA (Sir Samuel Hoare)So far as I am aware, it is the case that the Kashmir 3 State does not permit the ownership of land by British subjects. I have not received any recent reports of hardship being caused to British subjects as a result of this law which would justify Government in making representations to His Highness the Maharaja.
§ Major DESPENCER-ROBERTSONIs my right hon. Friend aware that the question does not actually concern the ownership of land, but the leasing of land as well?
§ Sir S. HOAREAs regards the leasing a land, I think that is allowed, but I shall be glad if my hon. and gallant Friend will send me any particulars that he has in mind.