§ 19. Mr. MAXTONasked the Secretary of State for India the reasons which have 2254 led to the notification in the Gazette of India declaring the Communist party of India an unlawful association as from 27th July; whether this applies to any other workers' organisation; and, if so, whether he can give the names of such other organisations?
§ Sir S. HOAREThe Communist party of India has been declared an unlawful association on the ground that it has for its object interference with the administration of the law and the maintenance of law and order, and that it constitutes a danger to the public peace. No other similar organisations have at present been declared unlawful.
§ Mr. HERBERT WILLIAMSIs the Communist party a workers' organisation?
§ Mr. MAXTONCould the right hon. Gentleman indicate if it is usual to declare illegal in other parts of the Empire political parties which are quite legal here in our own country?
§ Sir S. HOAREThat is a very general question. Whatever may be the general answer, the case of India stands by itself. I am satisfied that the organisation of this party in India would be a grave danger to the stability of order in India.
§ Mr. MAXTONWas the decision taken after consultation with the right hon. Gentleman himself?
§ Sir S. HOAREYes, Sir.