§ 67. Mr. D. GRENFELLasked the Secretary of State for India why the Government of Bombay has caused to be arrested the general secretary of one of the large trade unions concerned in the cotton strike in Bombay; and if he will consider what action can be taken to protect the liberties and the right of combination of the workers who are striving to maintain their standard of living?
§ The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for INDIA (Mr. Butler)The Government of Bombay have issued a statement, which was reproduced in the Press in this country, in regard to their action in arresting and detaining certain of the strike leaders in Bombay, one of whom may be the person referred to. This statement contained the fullest justification of the action taken by the Bombay Government in the interest of public safety and peace and made it clear that no restrictions have been placed on the functioning of trades unions. In case this statement has escaped the hon. Member's notice I am sending him a copy.
§ Mr. GRENFELLIs it not the function of trade union organisations to make suggestions on behalf of them, and how can that be done if the leaders are arrested, if those who are deputed to put forward their case are clapped into prison?
§ Mr. BUTLERI am satisfied with the discretion left to the Bombay Government and with the action they have taken. If the hon. Member will refer to the Press statement I am sending him, he will see that they had full justification for their action.