HC Deb 08 February 1932 vol 261 cc469-70
37. Mr. LAWSON

asked the Secretary of State for India if he has any evidence showing the effect of the boycott, movement on the sale of British goods in India; and to what extent popular support is behind the boycott movement?

Sir S. HOARE

There has not been time since the renewal of the Civil Disobedience movement for the effect of the boycott to show itself in the trade figures. In any case trade movements are now complicated by so many varying influences that it would hardly be possible to isolate the effect of any one of them such as the boycott. The answer to the second part of the question must, I think, be a matter of opinion, but it is certain that the attitude towards the boycott varies in different parts of the country.

49. Sir REGINALD CRADDOCK

asked the Secretary of State for India what steps have now been taken to enforce the prohibition of the picketing of shops selling British goods in the Bombay presidency and Bombay city; and whether such picketing has now stopped?

Sir S. HOARE

An Ordinance amending the Prevention of Molestation and Boycotting Ordinance with a view to removing difficulties experienced in its administration has been promulgated. The text of the amended Ordinance will be given in the White Paper. It is too early yet to answer the last part of the question.

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