HC Deb 16 March 1944 vol 398 cc391-2
44. Mr. Sorensen

asked the Secretary of State for India if he has considered the presidential address given to the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce, a copy of which has been sent to him, which emphasised that the time had come for the release of political leaders in detention, the need of greater industrial development in India and a guarantee that the operation of the United Kingdom Commercial Corporation will end with the armistice; and what steps he has taken to meet this demand.

Mr. Amery

I have so far only seen a Press report of the address in question. As regards the points to which the question refers, I would refer the hon. Member to the various official statements that are on public record.

Mr. Sorensen

Will the right hon. Gentleman accept an assurance that a copy has been sent to him, and is he aware that in any case there is a report in the bulletin issued by his Department, and, in the circumstances, does he not think that the contents of this address deserve particular attention?

Mr. Amery

I certainly read it with interest.

Mr. Sorensen

Does the right hon. Gentleman agree that something should be done on the lines suggested?

Mr. Amery

I am afraid that in answer to a question I could not go into the whole contents of a speech of which I have only read a telegraphed Press report.