§ 10.9 p.m.
§ The Under-Secretary of State for India (Mr. Arthur Henderson)I beg to move:
That an humble Address be presented to His Majesty in pursuance of the provsions of Section 309 of the Government of India Act. 1935, praying that the Government of India (Governors' Allowances and Privileges) (Amendment) Order, 1947, be made in the form of the draft laid before Parliament.The object of this Order is to provide for certain increases in the allowances for the Governors of the various Provinces of India. The reason is that the increased cost of living has necessitated an overall 25 per cent. increase in the amount laid down in the Order of 1937. When I say that this has received the approval of every one of the provincial governments, I think the House will readily accept it.
§ Earl Winterton (Horsham)On behalf of this side of the House, I would say that seems to be a reasonable proposal, and we feel that these allowances should be paid. I understand that there has been an attempt to make it retroactive. Could the right hon. Gentleman, with the permission of the House, say whether they are retroactive, and explain when they start and when they will end?
§ Mr. HendersonThey are retroactive to 1st April this year, and will continue in operation until 15th August and thereafter, unless and until they are repealed by the respective Governments of India and Pakistan.
§ Debate adjourned.—[Mr. Snow.]
§ Debate to be resumed upon Friday.