Oral Answers to Questions — General Dyer.

– in the House of Commons am ar 16 Mehefin 1924.

Danfonwch hysbysiad imi am ddadleuon fel hyn

Photo of Dr Leslie Haden-Guest Dr Leslie Haden-Guest , Southwark North

(by Private Notice) asked the Prime Minister whether his attention has been called to, the statements made by Mr. Justice McCardie during the trial of the action by Sir Michael O'Dwyer, formerly Lieut.-Governor of the Punjab, claiming damages for alleged libel against Sir Sanharan Nair, formerly member of the Executive Council of the Viceroy of India, with reference to the punishment of General Dyer by the Government of India and the Government of Great Britain; and whether, in view of the grave political and social reaction which these statements may have in India, he will order an inquiry to be made as to whether this is an abuse of privilege?

Photo of Mr Arthur Dixey Mr Arthur Dixey , Penrith and Cockermouth

(by Private Notice) asked the Prime, Minister if his attention has been called to the result of a recent case in the High Court which strongly suggests that General Dyer has not been fairly dealt with by the authorities, and in view of the fact that General Dyer is seriously ill, will he consider immediately what steps can now be taken to reconsider the matter?

Photo of Commander Hon. Joseph Kenworthy Commander Hon. Joseph Kenworthy , Kingston upon Hull Central

Before the question of the hon. and gallant Member for Penrith (Mr. Dixey) is answered, will the Prime Minister say whether he is aware that the learned Judge had not got the documents in the Dyer case before him, and had not the full evidence which was in possession of the Government of India?

Photo of Mr Ramsay Macdonald Mr Ramsay Macdonald , Aberafan

With reference to the question of the hon. Member for North Southwark (Dr. Guest), I have heard it now for the first time. No copy of the question reached me, and it has not been left at any of the usual places. With regard to the second question, I only received notice of it at. 1 o'clock to-day, and I cannot attempt to give a considered answer at such short notice. If the hon. Member will put his question on the Paper, I will deal with it.