§ 14. Mr. MORRELLasked the Under-Secretary of State for India whether Mr. A. W. Buchanan, the sub-divisional officer at Victoria Point, Burma, who issued the warrant for the arrest of Captain McCormick in the case which led to the imprisonment of Mr. Channing Arnold, was first transferred to another district and afterwards superseded; and, if so, for what reason?
§ Mr. MONTAGUMr. Buchanan was transferred to another district nearly two years ago, because it was thought desirable to post an officer of higher status at Victoria Point. In May last he was passed over for promotion to a higher grade by an officer junior to him, under the general rule that promotion is by selection and not by seniority in the higher grades of the Provincial Civil Service. But he has not been reduced either as regards pay or grade.
§ Mr. MORRELLCan the right hon. Gentleman say that Mr. Buchanan since this case has been in no sense departmentally punished?
§ Mr. MONTAGUYes, these events have taken place wholly independent of the other reasons which the hon. Gentleman has in his mind.
§ Mr. WEDGWOODDid Mr. Buchanan support Mr. Channing Arnold?
§ Mr. MONTAGUThe hon. Member has heard this question discussed in the House of Commons.