§ 3. Miss RATHBONEasked the Secretary of State for India whether he is aware that the Census Returns already published, for three provinces of India, all show an enormous increase in child marriage since the previous census, and especially those in Bihar and Orissa; the number of wives and widows under one year old has risen from 507 in 1921 to 4,959 in 1931; those between one and 10 years old from 504,920 to 934,391; and the total under 15 years old from 1,468,618 in 1921 to 2,048,862 in 1931; and whether, in view of these facts, he will direct the Government of India to consider means of strengthening the administration of the law, both with regard to age of marriage and age of consent without marriage?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for INDIA (Sir Samuel Hoare)I am aware of the figures cited by the hon. Member. The questions of the marriage age and the age of consent are constantly under 1202 the consideration of the Government of India and I do not consider it necessary to give any directions on the subject.
§ Sir WILLIAM DAVISONCan the right hon. Gentleman say what would be the effect on the matter referred to in the question if the proposals of the Government were carried into effect?
§ Sir S. HOAREI have said in my answer that the questions of the marriage age and the age of consent are constantly under the consideration of the Government of India.