Detained Indian Leaders (Correspondence)

Oral Answers to Questions — India – in the House of Commons at on 26 November 1942.

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Photo of Mr Reginald Sorensen Mr Reginald Sorensen , Leyton West

asked the Secretary of State for India whether correspondence from private persons in this country can be sent and delivered to Indian leaders now detained; whether those leaders are or will be permitted to communicate with private persons in this country and whether they will be permitted to make any public declaration?

Photo of Lieut-Colonel Leo Amery Lieut-Colonel Leo Amery , Birmingham Sparkbrook

I understand that the detained Indian leaders are permitted to correspond only with members of their families and then only on domestic matters. I cannot say when the present restrictions will be relaxed. Whether any public declaration by the leaders could be permitted would presumably depend on its character.

Photo of Mr Reginald Sorensen Mr Reginald Sorensen , Leyton West

Would it be possible for Members of the House to communicate with the Indian leaders either after submission to my right hon. Friend or through him?

Photo of Lieut-Colonel Leo Amery Lieut-Colonel Leo Amery , Birmingham Sparkbrook

That is covered by my answer. The matter is in the discretion of the Government of India.

Photo of Mr Reginald Sorensen Mr Reginald Sorensen , Leyton West

Will the right hon. Gentleman take steps to see if it is possible?