HC Deb 04 August 1947 vol 441 cc975-6
43. Sir T. Moore

asked the Under-Secretary of State for India whether the Chamber of Princes was consulted collectively or the Rulers of the Indian States individually, before it was decided to set up the Dominions of India and Pakistan, respectively; and what were the general views they expressed.

Mr. A. Henderson

Neither the Chamber of Princes nor the Rulers of Indian States individually were consulted regarding His Majesty's Government's announcement of 3rd June. In paragraph 18 of that statement it was explained that it related only to British India and that His Majesty's Government's policy towards the Indian States set out in the Cabinet Mission's Memorandum of 12th May, 1946, remained unchanged.

Sir T. Moore

Can the right hon. and learned Gentleman indicate what is to be the future of those Indian States who are opposed to inclusion in the new Dominions?

Mr. Henderson

That is an entirely different matter, and is not dealt with in my reply because it was not contained in the Question.

Colonel Gomme-Duncan

Since this is probably the last time upon which the title of Under-Secretary of State for India will appear on the Order Paper, may we know who will answer Questions in this House in future on the very important matters which are as yet by no means decided?

Mr. Henderson

I think that question had better be addressed to other quarters.