§ 34. Mr. Sorensenasked the Secretary of State for India the circumstances that have led to the displacement of the Moslem Premier of Sind, Khan Bahadur Allah Baksh; whether he was consulted on this matter; and when a decision to dismiss this Premier was reached?
§ Mr. AmeryThe circumstances are explained in a communiqué issued by the Governor of Sind on 10th October, which stated that he had discussed with Mr. Allah Baksh his renunciation of honours and the reasons for that renunciation given in his published letter, and that in the light of that discussion he had no option but to inform Mr. Allah Baksh that he no longer possesses his confidence and that he could not in consequence continue to hold office. I had, of course, been consulted on the situation created by the Premier's publication late in September of his letter to the Viceroy and had agreed as to the impropriety in the light of it of his continuing in office; but the final decision to dismiss him was taken by the Governor only after a personal discussion which, owing to the Premier's absence from Sind, could not take place until 10th October.
§ Mr. SorensenAre we to take it that the offence of this Moslem Premier was the return by him of the titles which he had enjoyed until then?
§ Mr. AmeryNo, Sir, that was an indication of his general attitude, which was one of direct disapproval of the measures taken by the Indian Government to restore order in a grave crisis arid of the complete identification of himself in public statements with the attitude of Congress.
§ Mr. SorensenDo I understand that he is a member of the Moslem League?
§ Mr. MolsonDoes not my right hon. Friend realise the satisfaction with which the dismissal of this Minister was heard in this country? Had he not shown himself thoroughly disloyal?