HC Deb 07 March 1938 vol 332 cc1502-3
4. Mr. T. Williams

asked the Under-Secretary of State for India whether he is in a position to state the present attitude of the Congress towards the inauguration of the Federal structure embodied in the Government of India Act; and the extent of the support outside the Congress for its attitude towards the Federal scheme?

Lord Stanley

The attitude of the Congress towards the inauguration of the Federal provisions of the Government of India Act has been expressed as being one of complete condemnation. On the other hand, my Noble Friend has received a copy of resolutions passed by the Hindu Mahasabha on 1st January last in which that organisation placed on record its deliberate opinion that Hindus should utilise whatever powers are provided for by the Act in the interests of the evolution of Hindustan as a united nation, and urged expedition in the introduction of Federation; and a resolution similar in effect was adopted about the same time by the National Liberal Federation of India.

Mr. Williams

Can the Noble Lord give an approximation in figures of the support given to the opposition from the Congress and elsewhere?

Lord Stanley

I must have notice of that question.