5 MAY 1926
Scenes and incidents in connection with the first day of the general strike are described by correspondents in all parts of the country.
The British Gazette, a Government publication, makes its first appearance to-day. It is a reply to the strike makers’ plan to paralyse public opinion. In an explanation for its appearance the real meaning of the strike is emphasised as well as the conflict between the Trade Union leaders and Parliament.
Proceedings have been taken against Mr Saklatvala, the Communist M.P., on account of a speech made at a May Day demonstration in London.
There was some discussion in the House of Lords with regard to the industrial crisis, following a statement by Lord Salisbury, who said that if wiser counsels did not prevail the Government would do its duty.
Formal first reading was given in the House of Lords to a Bill introduced by Lord Banbury to repeal the Trade Disputes Act.
Through Mr Snowden and Mr Lloyd George the Opposition parties in the House of Commons signified their readiness to expedite passage of the Budget resolutions in view of the overwhelming importance of the industrial situation. The report stage of these resolutions was agreed to, and the Finance Bill was brought in by the Chancellor and read a first time.