HC Deb 04 August 1947 vol 441 cc971-2
36. Mr. Wyatt

asked the Under-Secretary of State for India what provisions are being made for the British subordinate officers of the Calcutta police who do not wish to serve either India or Pakistan.

Mr. A. Henderson

As stated by the Prime Minister on the Second Reading of the Indian Independence Act the leaders of the Indian parties have guaranteed the continuance of the existing terms and conditions of service to all persons who are in Government service, whether Central or Provincial, and the guarantee, therefore, covers these officers. The provision to be made for any officer who does not desire to continue his service with the Calcutta police is a matter for the Provincial Government concerned to decide in accordance with the terms of his employment.

Colonel Gomme-Duncan

In the event of the two Indian Governments not carrying out this guarantee in future, are His Majesty's Government willing to make sure that these men receive their full rights and pensions?

Mr. Henderson

I am not prepared to make any statement beyond expressing the view that there is no reason to assume that either of these Governments will not carry out their obligations.