§ 15. Mr. Caryasked the Secretary of State for India whether it is to be accepted as Government policy that not until Indian leaders have come to an agreement among themselves is any forward step to be taken for constitutional reform in India; and further, that the form of agreement must have the approval of His Majesty's Government?
§ Mr. AmeryI do not feel that I can do more than refer my hon. Friend to the statements of policy made by the Governor-General on 8th August and 20th November last.
§ Mr. CaryIs India to continue in-definitely in her present political status in relation to our Empire war effort? Surely she deserves a more positive policy.
§ Mr. AmeryNo, Sir, the policy to which I referred is a very positive policy and marks a very great advance.
§ Mr. SorensenMay we take it that the right hon. Gentleman does not repudiate the principle of at least sympathetically considering and implementing any majority decision of any democratically elected body?
§ Mr. AmeryIt depends upon the area over which the election takes place and the amount of consent there is. Naturally, our whole sympathy is on the side of establishing self-government in India.
§ Mr. HarveyIs the right hon. Gentleman prepared at all times to use his good offices to promote understanding among the people of India?