Date:12/04/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/04/12/stories/2008041255121300.htm

National

Swraj Paul calls on Jyoti Basu

Special Correspondent

KOLKATA: United Kingdom-based industrialist Lord Swraj Paul called on the veteran Marxist leader, Jyoti Basu, at his house here on Friday.

Later, he described Mr. Basu as an “institution” in himself and “wealth of the country.”

“A good friend”

Mr. Basu referred to Lord Paul as “a very good friend” whom he knew well for long.

Lord Paul said Mr. Basu was “the greatest Chief Minister the country ever had” and “the whole nation is proud” of him.

Industrialisation

Mr. Basu had set the trend of industrialisation in West Bengal, besides playing an important role in national politics, he said.

Lord Paul is heading a four-member delegation of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association, United Kingdom branch, which is on a six-day visit to the State.