AT A CRITICAL STAGE

Otago Daily Times, Issue 21837, 27 December 1932, Page 7

AT A CRITICAL STAGE

THE CONFERENCE ON INDIA STATEMENT BY A DELEGATE (United Press Association.) (By Electric Telegraph—Copyright.) LONDON, December 23. (Received December 25, at 5.5 p.m.) Sir Tej Bahdur Sapu, a delegate to the Round Table Conference, told the Indian Conciliation Group that he left the conference last evening at a critical point. “We have been appealing to British statesmen to come to a settlement on the most vital issues, otherwise the Constitution on which wo have worked for three years cannot be completed. It is at present far from complete in regard to responsibility at the centre and in the provinces, which must be simultaneous. There is no question of a gap extending over months, much less 'years. The Indian delegates will not agree to a postponement of Federation until all the provinces, including the native States, agree to enter or until a reserve hank is established.” The Indians agreed to safeguard pensions and British and foreign investors, and certain reservations, including army control by the Governor-General during transition, but they insisted that the Legislature’s nominee hold an army portfolio with a mandate to Indianise the army as quickly as possible. “ I anticipate an agreement, but it may not be an agreement on all points. The Indians will not sign anything ambiguous.” He added that he disagreed with the British Government’s statements regarding the condition of India, where the dissatisfaction, discontent, and bitterness in nearly every Indian home was greater than at any time in his experience. The Congress had aroused political sentiment everywhere. Mr Gandhi and other politicals ought to be released, otherwise it would be impossible to pacify Indian opinion and ensure the Constitution a chance of working. He urged British statesmen in the House of Commons to trust the goodwill of the Indian people.

END OF THE CONFERENCE. LONDON, December 25. (Received Dec. 26, at 9 p.m.) Unceremonious and almost homely scenes marked the end of the Indian Conference. The Indian delegates, with one exception, wore European lounge suits, but several turbans gave a picturesque touch. Three of the delegates have already departed, and the last will have gone on Thursday. Lord Sankey read the King’s message wishing them godspeed, and added: “ India is thirsting. You have put the cup to her lips; do not delay her need.” He hoped that the delegates would be able to give a definite assurance of India’s entry into a federation, which could not at present be settled. A reserve bank to maintain India’s credit would eventually be necessary for both sides, while the Federal Government would co-operate on the question of defence. India was going to get a constitution, which, if tended, would grow and gather strength. She would eventually gain the ideally perfect by accepting the practically possible.