BRITISH PLAN FOR INDIA

Press, Volume LXXXII, Issue 24896, 8 June 1946, Page 7

BRITISH PLAN FOR INDIA

Acceptance By Moslem League

“WILLINGNESS TO z CO-OPERATE” (N.Z. Press Association—Copyright) (Rec. 10.30 p.m.)

NEW DELHI, June 7. The council of th<e All-India Moslem League, in a resolution, accepted the British Cabinet Mission’s pror posals for India by agreeing to par? tiejpate in the long-term constitutional arrangements for an interim Govern? ment.

The resolution expressed resentment at “the affront to Moslem sentiments by the choice of injudicious words” in the preamble of the British fission’s statement, but added: ’’Having regard to the grave issues involved, and prompted by an earnest desire for a peaceful settlement if possible, the league is willing to co-oper-ate.” The resolution saw the basis of Pakistan (the independent Moslem State desired by the league) as inherent in the plan, by virtue of its compulsory grouping of six Moslem pro? vinpes. The resolution affirmed the Moslem League’s willingness to co-operate in the proposed constitution-making machinery in the hope that it will ultimately result in the establishment of a complete sovereign Pakistan and the consummation of independence for the major nations of Moslems, Hindus, and all other peoples inhabiting the subcontinent. “For these reasons,’’ says the resolution, “the Moslem League accepts the scheme and will join the constitution-making body and keep in view the opportunity for right of secession of provinces or groups of the Ufiion which is provided by implication in the British Mission’s plan.” The league’s ultimate aim will depend on the final outcome of the eon? stifution-making body’s labours and the final shape of the constitution which may emerge.’ The league also reserves the right f,o modify or revise its policy at any time during the progress of the deliberations, or afterwards, if events require it, bearing in mind the principles to which the league is irrevocably committed. The resolution empowers Mr Jinnah to negotiate with the Viceroy (Lord Wevell) and make such decisions as he deems fit regarding the arrangements for the proposed interim government.

The Indian princes and their Ministers have begun a three days’ meeting to appoint the negotiating committee for which the British Cabinet Mission’s proposals provide, says the Bombay correspondent of Reuter's.

The princes will also discuss suggestions for liberalised State administrations which are believed to have been made at a meeting between members of the Cabinet and representatives of the States.