§ 21. Mr. Sorensenasked the Secretary of State for India, why the publication, "India at War," describing the military and industrial activity and resources of India and praising the Indian Princes, omits any reference to the democratic life and activity of India; and whether, in order to advance democratic principles and as a contribution to the ultimate purpose of the war, he will withdraw this publication and add to it an adequate picture of Indian democratic political activity?
§ The Secretary of State for India (Mr. Amery)No, Sir. The purpose of this publication, which was prepared with the knowledge and approval of the India Office, is to describe the facts regarding the voluntary and ever-increasing contribution of every kind which the people, as well as the Princes, of India are making towards the common war effort both at home and on the field of battle.
§ Mr. SorensenWhile appreciating what the right hon. Gentleman has said, may I ask him whether he does not agree that it is unfortunate that so much reference is made to the Princes of India, who are autocrats in their own States, while very little reference is made to the representatives of the democrats, quite apart from the fact that there are some 3,000 political prisoners in gaol? Will he not agree that a comprehensive and objective document setting out the total life of India would be much more likely to be impressive?
§ Mr. AmeryThe object of this document is not to set out the total life of India, which would require a very full document indeed, but to describe India's admirable effort to sustain the common cause on the field of battle and in the factories.
§ Mr. SorensenDoes the right hon. Gentleman not agree that it is one-sided to refer to the Princes and make no reference to the democratic representatives?