On Wednesday in the House of Commons Mr. Montagu made
the annual statement upon Indian Affairs. He drew attention to the result of the recent census, which showed that the population was 315 millions as against 294 millions in 1901. The improved financial condition was not the result of the imposition of any increased taxes upon the people, but was the result of favourable conditions from which the whole population benefited. Mr. Montagu gave in some detail an account of the arrangement for the Coronation durbar, upon which it was estimated that the Imperial expenditure would be £942,000, and the Provincial expenditure £183,000. The aim of the Government was to make the ceremonies as popular as possible. Commenting on the rumour that the native army was to be reduced, Mr. Montagu declared that nothing would be done that would impair that Army's efficiency to preserve peace and to maintain our power. With regard to the political situation Mr. Montagu protested against the statement that India was in a dangerous state and declared that politically the year had been on the whole uneventful.
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