HC Deb 18 March 1935 vol 299 c800
6. Duchess of ATHOLL

asked the Secretary of State for India whether he is aware that, owing to the continuance of labour unrest among dock, tramway, and other workers in Calcutta, numerous processions have been marching through the city bearing banners with Communist emblems and the sign of the hammer and sickle; and whether this indicates an extension of Communist activity in India as compared with the situation disclosed in his memorandum in Volume II, Part II of the report of the Joint Committee?

Sir S. HOARE

I am aware that there have been certain demonstrations of the kind referred to. The Government of India and local governments have exercised their powers under the Criminal Law Amendment Act, 1908, and other laws to deal with recent attempts to renew Communist activity. I have no reason to consider the position more serious now than when I circulated the note on terrorism to the Joint Select Committee.

Mr. T. WILLIAMS

Can the right hon. Gentleman say what are the wages paid to the workmen?

Sir S. HOARE

Obviously, that question does not arise out of the question on the Paper.

Mr. DAVID GRENFELL

Will the right hon. Gentleman assure the House that the Government are not, under the ostensible pretext of suppressing Communist propaganda, suppressing the rights of the Indian workers?

Sir S. HOARE

Certainly. That is the case.