From the August 18, 1956, Glasgow (Scotland) Bulletin...
'Geoff Duke Must Finish Six Months Suspension'. The International Motor-Cycling Federation refused to let British champion Geoff Duke ride in any Grand Prix races before a six month suspension against him ends. This means he will not be able to defend his Senior TT title at the Isle of Man this year.
The Federation, however, granted permission for the ban to be lifted in connection with smaller races. The ruling would also apply to 13 other riders suspended at the same time as Duke. The suspensions were imposed after a threatened strike by riders over starting money in the Dutch Grand Prix.
Duke said after the verdict - "I am disappointed by the decision, as my comrades and I had asked for a non-conditional lifting of the suspension. But I accept the F.M.I. decision.
"It will allow us to do some public training and not be absolutely handicapped when we resume running in normal conditions."
After winning three World Championships for Norton, Geoff Duke moved abroad to race for Gilera in 1953. With Gilera, he had a string of three consecutive 500cc World Championships. His unwavering support for a riders' strike demanding more start money led to Duke being suspended for six months, dashing any hopes for a fourth consecutive title.
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