Edwin Samuel Montagu, English politician, Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster (d. 1924)

Edwin Samuel Montagu, born on 6 February 1879 and passing away on 15 November 1924, was a prominent British Liberal politician whose career was marked by his significant tenure as the Secretary of State for India between 1917 and 1922. Known for his progressive stance, Montagu was often described as a "radical" Liberal, advocating for reforms and greater self-governance within the British Empire, particularly concerning India.

Edwin Montagu's Pioneering Role and Political Philosophy

Montagu's political identity was multifaceted. As a "radical" Liberal, he belonged to a wing of the Liberal Party that championed social reform at home and often advocated for constitutional advancements and greater autonomy for British colonies abroad. This philosophy profoundly influenced his approach to Indian policy during a critical period of nationalist awakening.

Beyond his political leanings, Montagu held a unique place in British parliamentary history as the third practising Jew to serve in the esteemed British cabinet. This was a remarkable achievement in an era when religious identity still presented barriers to high office. He followed in the footsteps of two other notable figures: Sir Herbert Samuel and Sir Rufus Isaacs.

• Sir Herbert Samuel (1870-1963): Samuel made history as the first openly practising Jew to serve in the British cabinet, holding various ministerial posts from 1909 onwards, including Postmaster General and Home Secretary. He later famously served as the first High Commissioner for Palestine.
• Sir Rufus Isaacs (1860-1935): Later known as Lord Reading, Isaacs was another pioneering figure. He served as Attorney General, Lord Chief Justice, and notably, as Viceroy and Governor-General of India from 1921 to 1926, succeeding Montagu's period of influence in Indian affairs.

Secretary of State for India: Montagu's Legacy

Montagu's five-year term as Secretary of State for India was arguably the most impactful period of his career. This role, based in London, involved overseeing the entire administration of British India, guiding policy, and acting as the primary link between the Indian government and the British Parliament.

His tenure coincided with a period of growing political consciousness and demands for self-rule within India, intensified by the First World War. Montagu recognized the need for constitutional reform and, in collaboration with the then Viceroy of India, Lord Chelmsford, initiated the landmark constitutional changes known as the Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms.

Key Aspects of the Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms:

Declaration of August 1917:

Before the reforms were finalized, Montagu made a pivotal declaration in the House of Commons on 20 August 1917, stating Britain's policy objective for India as "the increasing association of Indians in every branch of the administration and the gradual development of self-governing institutions with a view to the progressive realisation of responsible government in India as an integral part of the British Empire." This statement marked a significant shift in British policy, moving from benevolent despotism towards a stated goal of eventual self-governance.

Government of India Act 1919:

The reforms culminated in the passing of the Government of India Act 1919. This act introduced the system of 'dyarchy' in the provinces, dividing subjects into 'reserved' (controlled by British officials) and 'transferred' (controlled by Indian ministers responsible to elected legislative councils). While a limited step, it introduced a measure of representative and responsible government at the provincial level for the first time.

Expansion of Legislative Councils:

The reforms also expanded the size and increased the elected component of both provincial and central legislative councils, granting Indians a greater, though still limited, voice in governance.

These reforms, while not fully satisfying Indian nationalist aspirations, represented the most substantial constitutional advancement in British India since the Indian Councils Act of 1909. They laid the groundwork for future reforms and significantly shaped the trajectory of India's path towards independence.

Frequently Asked Questions about Edwin Montagu

What was Edwin Montagu's main contribution to India?

Edwin Montagu's primary contribution to India was his initiation and oversight of the Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms, which led to the Government of India Act 1919. This act introduced significant constitutional changes, including the system of 'dyarchy' and increased Indian representation in legislative councils, setting India on a path towards responsible government.

Why was Edwin Montagu considered a "radical" Liberal?

Montagu was considered a "radical" Liberal due to his progressive views on social reform and his advocacy for greater self-governance and constitutional advancements within the British Empire. His policy towards India, aiming for eventual responsible government, reflected these radical tendencies within the Liberal Party.

Who were the other Jewish cabinet members before Edwin Montagu?

Before Edwin Montagu, the two other practising Jews to serve in the British cabinet were Sir Herbert Samuel (who entered the cabinet in 1909) and Sir Rufus Isaacs (who joined in 1912).