§ 15. Mr. BROCKWAYasked the Secretary of State for India whether he is aware that a letter, dated 14th June, 1930, addressed to the Meerut Workers' Defence Committee, care of the Indian Trade Union Congress, Bombay, was opened by the Indian authorities; that it contained a sum of 500 dollars to be used for the assistance of political prisoners' in Bombay, Calcutta, and other cities, which was returned to the senders; and whether he will give instructions that the donation be allowed to be sent to assist the defence of prisoners in India?
§ Mr. BENNThe answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. The money was not assigned in the letter for the defence of the Meerut prisoners but appeared to be intended for general revolutionary purposes and was returned to the senders. The Government of India has itself provided funds for the defence of the Meerut prisoners and no interference with the transmission of funds for this purpose is contemplated.
§ Mr. BROCKWAYIs it not the fact that the money was being sent for the victims of British Imperialism in certain cities; and will the right hon. Gentleman make it clear that money may be legitimately sent for the defence of prisoners in India?
§ Mr. BENNCertainly. I have answered that precise inquiry at the end of my reply. We have no desire to interfere with the transmission of funds for the defence of prisoners; in fact, we provide funds ourselves.
§ Mr. KINLEYIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that this action discloses a deliberate policy for preventing the Meerut prisoners from having that adequate defence to which they are entitled?
§ Mr. SPEAKERThat point has been dealt with by the Minister.
§ Mr. KINLEYIs the right hon. Gentleman aware also——
§ Mr. SPEAKERThe question has been fully answered.
§ Mr. KINLEYThe answer that has been given contains a lie to cover up the opposition to an effective defence of these Meerut prisoners.
§ Mr. SPEAKERCaptain Macdonald.