§ 15. Mr. Sorensenasked the Secretary of State for India whether he is aware that prison restrictions imposed on Mr. Jawaharlal Nehru have been intensified since January and that correspondence dealing with important business has been delayed excessively, restricted or not delivered; that the delivery of books suffers similarly; and that food sent to him has been returned by the prison authorities; and whether, in view of the assurance given in December last that Mr. Nehru would be provided with necessary amenities, he will take steps to ensure that this and other political prisoners art: treated in the spirit of that assurance?
§ The Secretary of State for India (Mr. Amery)I have made inquiries and am informed that the restrictions imposed on Mr. Nehru while under imprisonment have not been intensified. No recent complaint has been received as to delay in delivery of letters or books, but as their number is sometimes great, some delay is unavoidable to enable them to be examined. Only in one instance was a food parcel returned to the sender: that was in accordance with the rules then applicable. The rules on this subject have since been altered. As regards the last 1973 part of the hon. Member's Question, I am satisfied that my assurance is being fulfilled.
§ Mr. SorensenWill the right hon. Gentleman consider any representation that I make to him and evidence that I may provide on the point confirming my statement that there has been a distinct deterioration of treatment?