13 MARCH 1909, Page 3

The debate was concluded by a short speech from Lord

Macdonnell, who declared that he took strong exception to the proposal to appoint a native member of the Viceroy'e Executive Council and to create provincial Executive Councils. The change was far too momentous to be made without previous experience and trial. It was wiser to go slowly, and if they found that the great powers which were now being conferred were wisely exercised, he was sure that nobody would be more ready than the Members of that House to go further in the same path. We desire to endorse Lord Macdonttelee conclusion. It seems to us eminently wise and statesmanlike. In our opinion, the debates on the Indian Councils Bill have given striking proof of the value of the House of Lords as a revising and amending body.