Mr. R. SMITHasked the Under-Secretary of State for India whether his attention has been drawn to the resignation of five Sikh members of the Punjab Legislative Council as a protest against the continued detention of Guadwara, prisoners, even after the passing of the Guadwara Act, and in spite of the passing in the Legislative Council of a resolution urging their immediate release; and whether any proposal for the release of the prisoners is under consideration?
§ Earl WINTERTONThe answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative; to the second, as far as my Noble Friend is aware, in the negative, 557W if by release is meant unconditional release. The hon. Member is doubtless aware that a number of these prisoners have been released on agreeing to accept certain conditions.