HC Deb 06 April 1914 vol 60 cc1615-6
86 and 87. Mr. AMERY

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether (1) His Majesty's Government have received a petition from the Regent of Kedah complaining that the High Commissioner of the Malay States has effected a vital change in the constitution and integrity of the State of Kedah against the express wish of the Regent and his Council of State; and whether the High Commissioner of the Malay States has given any and what reasons for his action; and (2) whether he is aware that, at the time when the suzerainty of Kedah was transferred by treaty from Siam to this country, the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs stated in this House on the 21st July, 1909, that the integrity of the State of Kedah was not affected by the new treaty, and that no transaction arising out of the treaty would prejudicially affect the State of Kedah; and whether, in view of the assurances then given on behalf of His Majesty's Government he will take immediate steps to revoke the change made in the constitution of the State by the High Commissioner?

Mr. HARCOURT

A petition has been received direct from the Regent of Kedah protesting against his appointment as President of the State Council, and has been referred to the High Commissioner for the Malay States for report. I am aware of the statement to which the hon. Member alludes; but I do not understand that this appointment is to be regarded as a vital change in the constitution of the State or as affecting its interests or integrity.

Mr. MacVEAGH

Is it not a fact that. this High Commissioner is the very official against whom the complaint is made, and does not the right hon. Gentleman think that the Report should be obtained from some independent official? Can the right hon. Gentleman not answer that?

Mr. HARCOURT

I cannot answer it because I have heard very little of it. But if the hon. Member will kindly give me notice I will give him a full answer.

Mr. MacVEAGH

Is it not a fact that the High Commissioner is exactly the person against whom the complaint is made? That being so, does the right hon. Gentleman think it fair to refer the question to him?

Mr. HARCOURT

I have no reason to think that is the fact.

Mr. MacVEAGH

It is so. Read the papers!