The right hon. and learned Gentleman has dismissed this matter in a very few words, which in itself is a mark of some value on his part as a Minister, but I think it is legitimate to explain that this question of extending this life of the Executive Council and of the Legislative Council, unless I am very much mistaken, does entail problems of considerable importance for the future of Burma. For example, it raises the question of a definite time table for the reforms in Burma, because we should want to know whether the right hon. Gentleman will be coming back to this House on future occasions for the purpose of asking for an extension of this Order. I would like to ask whether he intends to have an extension, and also what sort of time table the Government have in mind in dealing with the Burma problem. These Orders which have to come to us are of great importance. We cannot let them by without at least a query, and, in view of the situation in Burma, I think we are entitled to ask that sort of question.

As we all know, Burma has suffered, perhaps more than any other part of the British Commonwealth in the war. It has suffered from extensive damage, and the damage is such that it will take a long time to repair. In the midst of this damage, we are—perhaps many hon. Members will think rightly—pursuing a policy of developing self-governing institutions, but the very difficulties of Burma make this course very hazardous and one which we should examine most carefully. Therefore, when the right hon. Gentleman asks for an extension of this method of providing for the government of Burma, for which he asked in April, 1946, and for which he may well ask again six months hence, it is legitimate for us to ask what the time table is, whether we are likely to have a similar request again in six months' time, and whether he can give us any further information on these points.