Burma's Unexpected Vote The results of the elections in Burma
appear to be so decisive against separation from India that the Government is placed in a perplexing difficulty. It will be remembered that the plan of separation from British India was an early product of the first Round Table Conference two years ago. The Burma delegates were virtually unanimous, and the conclusion was drawn that Burmese public opinion was decidedly in favour of the change. The Government in the interval had been so advised. But now the elections give 30 seats to the Separationists, as against 26 to the Anti-separationists, and the latter are reinforced by 18 members of the People's Party, with 11 Independents who cannot be counted on the official side. The forces at work are complicated. Burma is a country of many communities and conflicting regional interests. The more advanced political leaders and organizations have upheld the view that Burma must march ahead to full self-government, that success is more likely in association with a progressive India, and that separation would mean a long stage of tutelage under an essentially provincial system.
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