§ Mr. J. HUDSONasked the Under-Secretary of State for India whether it is the policy of the Government of India and of His Majesty's Government to throw open the Andaman Islands for free colonisation by Indians; and whether there are any restrictions as to the number taking up residence there?
§ Earl WINTERTONThe general policy of the Government of India, as explained in their published Resolution of the 27th February, 1926, was one of readiness to receive applications for land in the Andamans from suitable persons. Under the Andaman and Nicobar Islands (Amendment) Regulation, 1927, permits for landing in the Andamans are no longer required, though the Chief. Commissioner may prohibit such landing, and licences to reside for periods longer than one month are still, with certain exceptions, required. No limitation has been laid down, so far as I am aware, as to the number of persons who may be allowed to reside in the islands.