§ 1. Major-General Sir Alfred Knoxasked the Under-Secretary of State for India whether British troops quartered in India will be excluded from the operation of any local law prohibiting the sale and consumption of alcoholic liquor?
§ The Under-Secretary of State for India (Lieut.-Colonel Muirhead)In none of the five Provinces where prohibition has been introduced so far, are British troops prevented from obtaining alcoholic liquor. In four of these Provinces the prohibition measures impose no restrictions upon them, while in the remaining Province they may drink in messes and canteens without permits. Any proposals for the 993 extension of prohibition will be carefully watched by the Government of India from this point of view.
§ Sir A. KnoxWill the Minister remember that any proposal to interfere with the British soldier's beer, would have a disastrous effect?
§ Mr. Wedgwood BennWill the hon. and gallant Gentleman see to it that the convenience of British residents in India does not interfere with the efforts of Indian reformers?
§ Mr. George GriffithsWill the Minister also see to it that these chaps always get butter?