AMNESTY REFUSED.

Waikato Times, Volume 113, Issue 18878, 23 February 1933, Page 7

AMNESTY REFUSED.

CANADIAN COMMUNISTS. APPEAL TO PRIME MINISTER. RIGHT OF FREE SPEECH. United Press Assn. —Elec. Tel. Copyright. OTTAWA, Feb. 21. The Canadian Labour Defence League has been carrying on the work of the Communistic League under this new name since the conviction of eight Toronto Communists a year ago. Tim Buck and his Communist associates in the Portsmouth Penitiary are now further charged with inciting the Portsmouth Prison riots last autumn. They will not be released, but will face their trial on these new’ charges. In a blunt, emphatic manner the Prime Minister, Mr R. B. Bennett made these statements to a deputation of 14 members of the Canadian Labour Defence League, headed by A. E. Smith, of Toronto, a former clergyman, and Mrs Buck. Speaking to Smith directly, Mr Bennett added: "And you have been the leading head of this new league. In my opinion there is no doubt but that any jury of this country would so 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 Bennet asked: “Has anyone ever heard of any freer speech being permitted than that which has been uttered in this room by your delegation? In what other bountry would such speeoh he permitted? Those of you who come from foreign lands should appreciate this.”