HC Deb 14 July 1942 vol 381 cc1082-3
66. Major Milner

asked the Secretary of State for India the scope and functions of the newly-appointed Defence member of the Viceroy's Council?

Mr. Amery

The content of the portfolio allotted to the new Defence member of the Governor-General's Executive Council includes the following subjects:

  1. (i) All questions concerning Defence which involve the co-ordination of policy and action between the Civil Departments of the Government of India and the work of the War member.
  2. (ii) War legislation, including the Defence of India Act and Rules made thereunder.
  3. (iii) Demobilisation and post-war reconstruction as far as the Defence Forces and Labour Forces are concerned.
  4. (iv) Man-power, including the administration of the National Service (European British Subjects) Act, but not including recruitment to Defence Services.
  5. (v) Amenities for and welfare of troops.
  6. (vi) National Defence Council.
  7. (vii) Cantonment administration.
  8. (viii) Acquisition and control of land for Defence purposes.
  9. (ix) Co-ordination of petroleum supplies.
  10. (x) Prisoners of War.

Major Milner

How do these functions differ from those put forward by the Lord Privy Seal, and do they include recruitment for the Army?

Mr. Amery

They do not include current recruitment for the Army, except the application of the National Service (European British Subjects) Act. In reply to the first part of the question, it includes one or two matters not included in the Lord Privy Seal's proposals, more particularly cantonment administration, military lands, the directorate of prisoners of war, and the National Defence Council. On the other hand, one or two items are not included which are, with one exception, included in the portfolios of other Indian members of the Executive.

Major Milner

Who will be responsible for recruiting? Will that be one of the functions of the Commander-in-Chief?

Mr. Amery

Yes, Sir, the War member.