HC Deb 15 May 1933 vol 278 cc5-6
9. Mr. T. WILLIAMS

asked the Secretary of State for India whether, in. view of the fact that the civil disobedience movement in India has been suspended and in order to create a better atmosphere for co-operation with the Government of India in the consideration of and inauguration of the new constitution, he will give instructions for the release of all political prisoners?

Sir S. HOARE

The position of Government in regard to this matter was stated by the Government of India in a communique issued last week, a copy of which I am sending to the hon. Member.

Mr. WILLIAMS

Are we to understand that, no matter what the Congress or the Congress leaders may do, no sort of reciprocity is to be expected from the Government?

Sir S. HOARE

That is a very general question. I think the hon. Member had better look at the communique to which I have referred. He will see that we have dealt with the situation very fully in that communiqué.

Mr. WILLIAMS

May I ask, further, whether, in view of the approach that has been made, His Majesty's Government are considering, perhaps, some other method of dealing with the problem and the anticipated psychology that might arise there from?

Sir S. HOARE

I prefer to take my stand upon the communiqué that has already been issued in India. I have nothing to add to it.

Mr. KIRKWOOD

Does not the right hon. Gentleman consider that it would create a nice atmosphere if he were to comply with the suggestion contained in the last sentence of the question—that is to say, to release all political prisoners?

Sir S. HOARE

There are many considerations to be taken into account. The Government have made their statement as they see the position, and I have nothing to add to it.

Mr. MORGAN JONES

Does not the right hon. Gentleman consider it desirable that the Government should secure as unbiased and favourable an atmosphere as possible in their consideration of the Round Table Conference proposals—the White Paper proposals—by acting on the suggestion contained in the question?

Sir S. HOARE

I think that on the whole it is best to leave the position as it was stated.

Mr. WILLIAMS

I beg to give notice that I will raise this matter on the Adjournment at an early date.