DANGEROUS REDS

Gisborne Times, Volume LXXIII, Issue 11877, 23 February 1933, Page 3

DANGEROUS REDS

CANADIAN COMMUNISTIC LEAGUE UNDER NEW NAME

LEADERS CHARGED WIT 11 INCITING PRISON RIOT.S.

PREMIER'S BLUNT TALK

(U.P.A. by Elec, Tel. Copyright)

OTTAWA, February 21

The Canadian Labour Defence, League has been carrying or. the AA'nrk of a Communistic league under this npAA’ name since the conviction of the Toronto Communists a year ago. Tim Buck and his Commun*st associates in Portsmouth penitentiary are now further charged with inciting the Portsmouth prison riots lass fall. They will he released, hut will face trial on tli-s ..'".y chnrg- " In a blunt, emphatic manner, the Prime Minister, Mr. R. B. Bennett, made these statements to a deputation of 14 members of the Canadian LahoAir Defence League, headed by Mr." A. E. Smith," of Toronto, a former clergyman,“and 'Airs. "Rifbk.

Speaking to Mr. ■ Smith directly, Mr Bennett added: —

"And you haA’C been a . leading head in this noAv league. In my opinion, there is no doubt hut that a jury of this country Avould .so find you guilty.”

The deputation asked for an amnesty for the Communist prisoners at Potsmouth and 64 others held for "workers’ activities.” Remarks about terrorism ancl capitalism Avere hoard repeatedly from the delegation in regard to the present economic system. Answering the delegation, Mr. Benliett asked

"Has anyone over heard of any freer speech being permitted than has been it-lerev m V::-- by your delegation ? In what othoi country Avould such speech he permitted? Those of you from foreigu lands snould appreciate this.”