REFORMS IN INDIA

Dominion, Volume 13, Issue 283, 24 August 1920, Page 5

REFORMS IN INDIA

TO COME INTO OPERATION SPEEDILY STATUS OF INDIANS IN DOMINIONS (By Tolegraph-Press Association-Copyright ■ Simla, August 20. . The Viceroy, in opening the autumn session of the Legislative Council, said the postponement of the Prince's visit had caused intense disappointment to millions in India. He extended a hearty welcome to tho Duke of Connaught. Referring to the reforms, he said electoral rules had been sanctioned which would eiable the reform scheme to come into operation sooner than was expected. Dealing with the trade position, he said tho excess of imports over exports was causing concern, and Indian representatives, at the Brussels Conference had been asked to consider ■ such arrangements as were possible to find an outlet for the balance ©f tho stocks which remain undisposed of, and also the question of facilities for financing exports to European countries. He quoted figures showing that the present position regarding metals and the note issue was more satisfactory. Touching the question . of emigration and tho status of Indians in the selfgoverning colonies and Dominions, the Viceroy said that negotiations were pro- 1 ceeding with the different Dominions, and many outstanding points had been satisfactorily settled. Dealing with tho Labour question, he said the local governments were being consulted in connection with the revision of the Factories and Mines Acts, The Government had advanced strong claims for the inclusion of India among the eight leading industrial countries entitled to *>.'Kts '>n the governing 'body of the International Labour Ofiice. Reviewing . the military position, he said hat the operai.cns against the Mahsuds had been practically closed, but it had been decided that troops should remain in occupation of Central Wassiristan.—Reuter.

VISIT OF DUKE OP CnNNalliiHT. Simla, August 21. A Royal proclamation announces that it is impossible for the Prince of Wales to visit India in this cold weather without danger to his health. If he has recovered, his visit will be made in the following winter.- In order to inaugurate India's reforms, the Duke of Connaught will visit India this winter, and will open the Chamber of Princes and the new Indian Legislative Assembly—Aus.,N.Z. Cable Assn. ~.