§ 27. Mr. Sorensenasked the Secretary of State for India how many political prisoners or detainees still remain in custody; what Indian representations he has received on their behalf with a view 18 to their release; whether any action has been taken to secure the co-operation of the Indian National Congress or Congress members of Provincial Legislatures and local bodies in Civil Defence; and what steps, respecting Civil Defence, have now been taken?
§ Mr. AmeryI understand that the number of persons detained or sentenced to imprisonment under the Defence of India Rules who were not affected by the recent release of civil disobedience prisoners, was a little over 2,000. I have received no actual representations on their behalf, but I have seen the Congress Resolution of 30th December regretting that all prisoners and detainees had not been released. With regard to Civil Defence measures in India, I would refer the hon. Member to the reply which I made to the hon. Member for South Ayrshire (Mr. Sloan) on 18th December. It has been reported that the Congress Working Committee recently issued instructions to Congressmen regarding their conduct in air raids, and I have no doubt that the authorities will welcome and encourage the co-operation of all sections of the population in the tasks of Civil Defence.
§ Mr. SorensenAre any further steps, other than those announced, being taken to secure at least a measure of co-operation with political leaders in India in regard to this important matter, and, further, when are other prisoners likely to be released, and why are they not being released?
§ Mr. AmeryI cannot agree that there should be any general release of people who have advocated violence in opposition to the war effort or aiming at the overthrow of the constitutional government.
§ Mr. SorensenWill the right hon. Gentleman reply to the other part of my Supplementary Question?