§ 1. Sir Waldron Smithersasked the Under-Secretary of State for India whether any date prior to June, 1948, has been fixed for the transfer of power; and whether officers now on leave in England and not due to return for some weeks will be permitted to retire with compensation, without returning to India.
In asking this Question, may I explain, Mr. Speaker, that it was put down before the recent proposals for the government of India became known?
§ The Under-Secretary of State for India (Mr. Arthur Henderson)The Indian Independence Bill provides for the transfer of power on 15th August. Officers now on leave in this country who wish to be excused the short period of service between the expiry of their leave and the transfer of power are at liberty to apply for release with compensation without returning to duty.
§ Sir W. SmithersMay I say that that answer will give great satisfaction?