§ Mr. T. Smithasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether the debate in the State Council on the suggested changes in the constitution of Ceylon has been concluded; and, if so, is he in a position to make a statement as to what action is contemplated?
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Mr. M. MacDonaldThe debate was concluded on 13th July, but I shall not be in a position to make a statement until I have had an opportunity of studying the views expressed in the Council and the Governer's report on the debates.
Sir N. Stewart Sandemanasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is aware that the Sinhalese vernacular Press is carrying out a campaign against the Tamil and other minorities in Ceylon; and what steps he proposes to take to put a stop to this?
Mr. M. MacDonaldI have received no reports from the Governor as to the existence of such a Press campaign, but am making inquiries of him.
Sir N. Stewart Sandemanasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is aware that the Native State of Travancore in India has increased its duty by 50 per cent, on Ceylon tobacco; and whether, as this is a retaliatory measure on account of the treatment of Tamils in Ceylon, he will state what action he proposes to take to remedy this?
Mr. M. MacDonaldI am aware of this increase of duty, but according to my information the Travancore Government have stated that it has been imposed for revenue purposes.
§ Mr, Woodsasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what percentage of the total membership of the Ceylon State Council is Sinhalese; and, also, what percentage of the population of Ceylon is Sinhalese?