LOYALTY OF ARMY

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LXIV, 29 May 1930, Page 5

LOYALTY OF ARMY

DIFFICULTIES OF POLICE (British Official Wireless) RUGBY, 2oUi May. In the House of Lords, Lord Peel called for a statement on the situation in India. The fullest support should, he said, bo given to the Government of India to crush and end the disorders, which seemed to be organised from a common centre. He suggested that instead of arresting leaders in particular disturbances, it Avas time to strike at the centres of the disturbances, the Congress Comittce themselves, and that a greater effort be made to counter the flood of misrepresentation of British policy in the vernacular press. Lord Reading said.that what was new and serious about the present disturbances was the evidence that an organisation of civil disturbance had been set up. Civil disobedience could not be tolerated, and the Government must put forth all the weapons at its command to break it.

Earl Russel, Under-Secretary for India, having surveyed the situation in various centres, said that there was no question of the loyalty of the Indian Army, and he paid a tribute to the work of the Indian police who frequently were pelted by brickbats, and insulted, and not allowed to protect themselves except in the last resort. The Government had shown the utmost patience and forbearance in quelling disorders, and had resorted to firearms only when conditions made if absolutely necessary. Earl Russel paid a tribute to the viceroy, who had shown immense patience, and had done nothing that could be regarded as provocative. The Government, had assured him that he had their full and unstinted support.