COMMUNISTS IN CANADA.

Press, Volume LXIX, Issue 20788, 23 February 1933, Page 13

COMMUNISTS IN CANADA.

0 ATTACK BY PRIME MINISTER. CCHITED PRESS ASSOCIATION—-BY ELKCTEIO TELKOHAPS —COPYRIGHT.) OTTAWA, February 21. , The Canadian Labour Defence League hag been carrying on the work of the Communistic League under tliis new name since the conviction of eight Toronto Communists a year a go. Tim Buck and hi 9 Communist Associates in Portsmouth penitentiary have now been further charged with inciting the Portsmouth prison riots last fall. They wilJ not be released, but will face their trial on thfe now charges. In a blunt and emphatic manner the Prime Minister, Mr K. B. Bennett, made t.lie above statements to a deputation of 14 members of the Canadian Labour Defence League, beaded bv Mr A. E. Smith, ol' Toronto, a former clergyman, and Mrs Buck. Speaking to Mr Smith directly, Mr Bennett added: "And you have been the leading head of this new league. In my opinion there is no doubt that a jury of this country would find you guilty." The deputation asked for an amnesty for the Communist prisoners at Portsmouth and 64 others held for "workers' activities.'' Remarks about terrorism and capitalism were heard repeatedly from the delegation, in regard to the present economic system. ■ Answering the delegation, Mr Bennett asked: "Has anyone ever heard of any freer speech being permitted than has been uttered in this room by your delegation! In what other country would such speech be permitted t Those of you from foreign lands should appreciate this.''