§ Major POLEasked the Secretary of State for India whether he is aware that 347W the sending away of the young Maharaja of Bharatpur and his little brothers to Europe is against religious custom so soon after the death of their parents and before their parents' death anniversary, and in the winter season with no relative or friend or Indian attendant; whether he will cause inquiries to be made in regard to this matter; and if he will consider the possibility of allowing the return of the young princes to be educated and trained in India?
§ Mr. BENNI have seen a representation to the effect stated by my hon. and gallant Friend. I am informed that there is no obligation of religion for the son to attend any ceremony that has not already been performed. The boys are in the charge of a British officer of the Indian Civil Service who has had previous similar experience. The party includes an Indian attendant and the Government of India have decided to send the boys' previous Indian tutor to join the party in England next April. The first few months of the Maharaja's stay in Europe are being spent in Switzerland on medical advice. I am satisfied of the wisdom of sending these boys to Europe for a few years in the circumstances of the case and having regard to the medical history of the family.