§ 66. Mr. T. WILLIAMSasked the Secretary of State for India whether the Government propose to take no action under the present law and ordinances against Indians who carry on peaceful propaganda for Indians to buy Indian goods?
§ Sir S. HOAREThere is no wish to interfere with honest advocacy of the use of Indian goods so long as no attempt is made to interfere with the rights of other people. But the authorities in India will take action against any form of the civil disobedience movement.
§ Mr. WILLIAMSDo I understand from the answer that if it is only peaceful picketing the pickets will not be interfered with?
§ Sir S. HOAREThe hon. Member will see if he reads my answer that any action that leads to civil disobedience will be dealt with by the Government.
§ Mr. WARDLAW-MILNEMay I ask whether, in the experience of India or anywhere else, picketing which begins peacefully ever remains peaceful?
§ Mr. BUCHANANMay I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether this policy has the approval of the Prime Minister, seeing that he was very closely associated with this movement at an earlier stage; if so, has he changed his opinion?
§ Sir S. HOAREOf course, this policy has the approval of every Member of the Cabinet.