HC Deb 05 March 1934 vol 286 cc1513-4
3. Mr. HANNON

asked the Secretary of State for India if he is satisfied that adequate measures have been adopted, and that effective reconstructive works are in process, in relation to the recent earthquake disaster in Bihar?

Mr. BUTLER

As announced by the Finance Member of the Government of India in his Budget speech last week, a comprehensive plan has been worked out by the Government of India and the Government of Bihar in consultation, covering the reconstruction of Government buildings, financial assistance to local authorities and relief to private sufferers. A special commissioner has, I understand, been appointed by the Bihar Government, and, with the financial assistance given from central revenues, I have no doubt that the work of reconstruction will be vigorously taken up.

Mr. HANNON

Does the answer mean that everything possible is being done by the Government of India and the Government of Bihar to deal with the unfortunate circumstances that have arisen in that part of India?

Mr. BUTLER

I am confident that every possible step is being taken by those two Governments to meet this catastrophe.