§ 13. Lieut.-Colonel Mackesonasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he is aware that the recent general strike in Cyprus was illegal; what connection it had with the recent sentence of one year's imprisonment on certain Cypriot trades unionists who were charged with trying to overthrow the constitution; and if he will give an assurance that he will not be in fluenced in any way by general strikes.
§ Mr. George HallI have not yet received a report on the general strike to which the hon. Member refers, but I am informed that a one day's strike took place on the 22nd January as a protest against sentences passed by the Assize Court on 18 individuals. On the information available to me, I am advised that the strike does not appear to have been unlawful within Section 52 of Cyprus law No. 16 of 1941.
§ Lieut.-Colonel MackesonCould the right hon. Gentleman say if he approves of strikes aimed at influencing the Legislature?
§ Mr. SolleyOn a point of Order. Is it not a fact that the trade unionists sentenced to imprisonment are appealing against that sentence and, in those circumstances, is it proper that this Question should be put on the Order Paper?
§ Mr. SpeakerI have not heard whether they are appealing or not. I cannot keep in touch with every appeal throughout the Empire.
§ Major Guy LloydIs it not a fact that all general strikes are against the Government?