HC Deb 29 April 1931 vol 251 cc1612-3
12. Commander BELLAIRS

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, in view of the terms of the agreement with the Soviet Government, what action he proposes to take in regard to the resolution of the Executive Committee of the Communist International, urging that Communists must take over the leadership of the Indian masses, exploit the Indian National Congress, and organise general strikes, and drawing attention to the headway made by the Communist movement, accompanied by conflicts with the authorities?

Mr. A. HENDERSON

The text of the resolution of the Executive Committee of the Communist International, as reported in "Pravda" of the 24th of April, deals mainly with measures for the defence of the Soviet Union, and contains no reference to India. India is, however, mentioned in what are described as the "theses" which precede the resolution. These contain an appreciation of the Indian situation as seen by the Communist International. I do not consider that these utterances merit undue attention.

Commander BELLAIRS

But surely the right hon. Gentleman will admit that it is a breach of the Treaty he made with the Soviet Government, and may I ask him at what stage his patience will become exhausted?

Mr. HENDERSON

In reply to the first part of the question, I do not admit that it is a breach, or else my patience might have become exhausted.

Mr. MARJORIBANKS

Will the right hon. Gentleman ask the Secretary of State for India whether—

Mr. SPEAKER

Mr. Hore-Belisha.

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