HC Deb 09 March 1936 vol 309 cc1774-5
8. Mr. JAGGER

asked the Under-Secretary of State for India whether he is aware that the offices of the Labour trade union and the railway union and houses of the officials of these bodies in Cawnpore were raided by the police; and whether it is the policy of the Government to proceed against Labour organisations?

Mr. BUTLER

I have no official information but have seen Press reports which indicate that owing to the suspected existence of a revolutionary conspiracy numerous buildings in Cawnpore and elsewhere, which included the offices of labour and trade unions and the houses of officials of those bodies, were searched by the police early in February. There is no interference in India with any genuine trade union organisation carrying on its legitimate activities.

Mr. T. WILLIAMS

Would the hon. Gentleman state the definition of a genuine trade union"?

Mr. BUTLER

One that does not involve itself in revolutionary activities and conspiracy.

Mr. WILLIAMS

Will the hon. Gentleman supply what would be regarded as a reasonable interpretation of a genuine trade union?