§ 23. Mr. Sorensenasked the Secretary of State for India whether full consideration has been given to the effect of increased currency in India due to the expansion of Anglo-American Armies; and what action is being taken to deal with the economic problem involved.
§ Mr. AmeryThe expansion referred to by the hon. Member is undoubtedly one of many contributory factors in the increasing economic strain upon India. The Government of India and His Majesty's Government have, for a long time, been engaged in measures to offset this strain. I refer in particular to the efforts made to remedy the shortages in India of transport and mining equipment, of food grains and of consumer goods generally. The success of these efforts is evident from the considerable degree of stability which has been maintained for more than a year past.
§ Mr. SorensenDoes the right hon. Gentleman appreciate that many specialists in these matters are very apprehensive regarding the future, and will he not 1520 take further steps to try to offset the danger of inflation in the months to come?
§ Mr. AmeryI also am naturally apprehensive and concerned about the future, and we are doing all we can to avert the difficulty.
§ Mr. ColegateDoes not my right hon. Friend recognise that the only real solution is the release of further exports from this country to India?