§ VISCOUNT CRANBORNE had given Notice that he would move, That leave be given to the Viscount Templewood to advance his Motion (now standing for Wednesday, the 24th instant) to Monday, the 15th instant. The noble Viscount said: My Lords, since I put down the Motion that stands in my name on the Order Paper today there have been further conversations between the noble Viscount, the Leader of the House, and myself on the question of the debate on the subject of India and in particular as to the date on which it should be held. I understand it is from every point of view more convenient that it should take place on the 18th rather than the 15th. I would, therefore, beg leave of the House to move my Motion in an amended form, "That leave be given to the Viscount Templewood to advance his Motion (now standing for Wednesday, the 24th inst.) to Thursday, the 18th inst."
§ I should acquaint your Lordships with the fact that I understand my noble friend intends to frame his Motion in a somewhat different form from that which now appears on the Order Paper. He will merely ask His Majesty's Government whether they have any statement to make upon India. That will give an opportunity to the Secretary of State for India and Burma—whom we are all so glad to welcome back—to make a statement of the position as he sees it, and 320 that can, of course, lead to a debate. That would be the form in which the debate, as I understand it, would take place.
§ Moved, That leave be given to the Viscount Templewood to advance his Motion (now standing for Wednesday, the 24th instant) to Thursday, the 18th instant.—(Viscount Cranborne.)
§ THE SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS (VISCOUNT ADDISON)My Lords, the noble Viscount's proposal is quite convenient, and I hope the House will approve.
§ VISCOUNT ADDISONNo.
§ On Question, Motion agreed to.