Stuk 3 - Telegram from Lord Chelmsford to Edwin Montagu

Quotes from his speech of 3 September announcing an inquiry into disorders and an Act to indemnify the officers who were called on to restore order and to validate such actions as the stress of circumstances required. Protests about the Bill are probably due in part to misconcep-tion, but no further explanation could be given till Montagu had agreed to its terms. The Leg-islative Council are considering whether to publish an explanation of its purpose or to await debate; there are objections to giving explanations to individuals. The problems involved in the relations of the Committee to the Government have been mentioned in previous telegrams. An attempt will probably be made to attack the whole of policy, and to avert the scandal of making the Government of India amenable to anyone but Montagu they must rely on the chairman’s discretion and on Montagu’s directions to him. As regards the attack on the use of martial law which must be canvassed, they may safely rely on the strength of their case. It is doubtful whether replying to Indian politicians in the manner suggested by Montagu would be convincing or satisfying. Wishes to state that their policy has Montagu’s support, in order to counter rumours emanating from Indians in London.

(Typed.)