§ 53. Sir CHARLES OMANasked the Secretary of State for India whether he is aware that the district magistrate for the Nilghiris (Ootacamund) is refusing arms licences to Europeans domiciled in his district, even when they are retired officers of the Indian Army, as in the case of Lieut.-Colonel Bowen-Powell, C.M.G.; and whether he will take measures to put an end to such refusals?
§ Mr. BUTLERThe issue of licences to possess aims is a matter for the decision of the local authorities. I have no information regarding the particular case mentioned, but will make inquiries if my hon. Friend desires.
§ Sir C. OMANWill it facilitate the inquiries of the hon. Gentleman if I give him a copy of the original document which I have in my hand in which Mr. Wood, the magistrate, announces his intention of refusing licences to as many persons as possible, and particularly specifies the case of the gentleman who has sent me this letter as an example of what he intends to do? Is it not a ridiculous pretext that he is afraid that arms may be stolen from Europeans by the terrorists?
§ Mr. BUTLERI again repeat that this is a matter for the local authorities, and I shall only be too glad to receive a copy of the communication to which my hon. Friend refers.