Item 5 - Telegram from Lord Reading to Edwin Montagu

[Part 1.] The situation in Calcutta is slightly easier. He has ordered that trials in jail and in camera should cease and that the wearing of Gandhi caps or the selling of khaddar should not, in themselves, lead to arrest. Ronaldshay is having a list prepared of those convicted merely for declaring themselves volunteers, and will then consider reducing sentences. Reading continues to receive telegrams from members of the Legislative Assembly and the Bengal Council, etc., suggesting a Royal Commission to inquire into the discontent, or a round-table conference. There is a general feeling that the Government is being repressive, but it is difficult to limit law enforcement without discouraging local authorities and the police. He is being careful not to give the appearance of differing from Ronaldshay, who will have an opportunity to explain his policy at the Council meeting on the 19th. The fundamental difficulty is that if the Government measures were withdrawn, volunteers would immediately try to take control of the city; the European community and others would then oppose them, and collisions would probably ensue.

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