§ Colonel WEDGWOODasked the Under-Secretary of State for India whether he will inquire in which provinces deferential treatment is actually being given to political offenders; whether this is only done in Bengal and the United Provinces; and, if so, why there should be any difference of practice in this matter in India?
§ Earl WINTERTONThe Government of India have suggested to all the local governments not only that uniformity of practice is desirable in the treatment of political offences, but that many of these offenders, if awarded sentences of rigorous imprisonment, might not unreasonably receive treatment, in the matter of labour, food, clothing and privileges, different from that accorded to ordinary criminals. It is understood that in many provinces such differentiation is made. I shall be glad to inquire as to the result of these suggestions. The hon. and gallant Member will remember that jails are now a provincial subject, and that the rules are framed by local governments.