76

A.—6

Summary of Results of Discussion. In opening this discussion, I explained that the intensity of the feeling aroused, in India was due to the opinion widely held there that the disabilities of Indians won: based on distinction of colour and were badges of racial inferiority. I did not associate myself with that view. 1 believed it to be mistaken. The course of this discussion has shown that I was amply justified. Any impartial person reviewing the statements made will find it impossible to prove that any general ban is maintained against Indians in the Empire or that throughout the Empire thay are placed in an inferior status ; or again, that such, disabilities as they may suffer from are based on colour or racial, grounds. The Duke of Devonshire has shown that in the West Indian colonies—British Guiana, Jamaica, Trinidad—-Indians enjoy the same rights as other British subjects. The same, I believe, is true in Ceylon and Mauritius. Mr. Mackenzie King has told us that in eight out of nine provinces in Canada Indians enjoy full rights of citizenship. If in one province there are exceptions to the general rule, these exceptions are based not on the colour distinction, but on rather complicated social and political considerations. Mr. Bruce has told us that representatives of every shade of political thought in Australia have shown sympathy with the claim, that lawfully domiciled Indians should enjoy full citizen rights. He believes that Australian public opinion is ready to welcome, as far as the position of domiciled Indians is concerned, any measure which is conceived in the interests of the Empire as a whole. General Smuts said, "It is not a question of colour; it is a different principle It is the case of a small civilization —a small community—-finding itself in danger of being overwhelmed by a much, older and more powerful civilization ; it is the economic competition from people who have: entirely different standards and. viewpoints from ourselves." The same sentiments have boon expressed by the representatives of the other Dominions, and notably by Mr, Massey. These opinions, so remarkably similar in tone, of this great body of Empire statesmen, must surely bring conviction and comfort to any Indian whose feelings may have been injured or whose, sense of dignity may have, been impaired by a contrary view. Let their suspicions and their doubts bo allayed by these declarations of tho Empire leaders, sent out to the world from this Conference. Not desirable to press Resolution. Let mo now consider whether any action should be taken on the definite; proposals placed before the Conference by my colleague, Sir Tej Sapru. He was not concerned, nor was the delegation concerned, so much with his concrete proposals as with the attitude that would be taken up by the Prime Ministers in their different Dominions on this subject. I consider that the position of the Indians within the Empire has been most notably advanced in this Conference. Mr. Bruce has stated that he thinks that further inquiry is unnecessary, but that, on his return to Australia, he will consult with his colleagues and see what action can be taken. Mr. Mackenzie King has reaffirmed his statement about the revision of the Federal Law, and he is quite willing, if it is thought desirable to send a delegation to Canada, to appoint a group to meet and confer with such delegation. I rather gather, however, that the passing of this particular resolution might not necessarily assist in obtaining the result which we desire. General Smuts, lam afraid, will not be able to support the resolution. General Smuts, it is true, did not support the resolution of 1921. I should like to say that Ido not rest my case entirely on the resolution. If there had. been no resolution of 192.1,- this problem would still be urgent and pressing. The resolution of 1921 stands, but, I rest my case not merely upon a formula but upon the broad equities of the case and an appeal for justice and Imperial, unity. lam quite aware of the: difficulties of South Africa, but I hope General Smuts, when he returns, while alive; to his own difficulties, will retain a vivid consciousness of our own. It has been said that the Empire Conference should be unanimous in its resolutions. I think that, if this resolution is pressed, some members might, be disposed not to vote for it ; not because they do not sympathize with the end to be attained, but because they think this particular means is either unnecessary or perhaps not desirable. Such a vote, therefore, might create, a, totally false impression in India of the real situation. I ask my friend, Sir Tej Sapru, whether he might not consider it advisable not to press his resolution. But lam very anxious that it should be maeh: quite plain in India, what are the results that have been attained. I think it would be; most valuable if a, short note could be added to the report of the Conference showing clearly what are the practical results of this discussion and what India has gained. STATEMENT BY HIS HIGHNESS THE MAHARAJAH OF ALWAR. The Maharajah of Alwar : In this world of ours a great deal, if not everything, depends on how far, and how, we arc able to control our human nature and in what channels we can guide, it in order to achieve, successful results. It is easy enough to see the dark patches, to brood over difficulties, to exaggerate, and enlarge upon them, and finally to be overcome with remorse, repentance, or despair. But history teaches us the great lesson that the world advances and does nert recede, when, without deluding ourselves, we are able to buckle our determination and throw our vision beyond the; clouds on to the silver fining. Humanity, after all, behind which shines the radiance of the: Godhead, is not so black as our imaginations and our unfulfilled desires and hopes are likely sometimes to paint it. Stone upon stone can steadily be built into an edifice with a single-hearted purpose, with the help of cement of our good will and toleration. Objects of Conference. 1 conceive that erur Conference of the; members of the British Empire has'assembled in order to shed light, over the dark patches, to, exercise our determination in subscribing our quota to solve difficult problems, and, instead of hypnotizing ourselves with pessimism, to enable, us to look ahead to the dawn which must invariably follow the night.