§ 39. Mr. KINGasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether, in the light of the disclosures in the recent Report of Sir John Anderson, he will now grant a political amnesty to all persons suffering imprisonment in Ceylon as a result of the riots in 1915?
§ The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for the COLONIES (Mr. Hewins)I presume that the hon. Gentleman intends to refer to the recently published Report of a Commission of Inquiry appointed by the Governor; but that Report contains nothing relevant to the cases of men imprisoned under sentences of properly constituted tribunals. Sir John Anderson has investigated all the sentences of imprisonment imposed in connection with the riots. On various grounds he has released a number of prisoners and reduced the sentences of many others. Those remaining in prison were properly convicted, in his opinion, of serious crimes; and I see no reason for suggesting that they should be released.
§ Mr. KINGDid he not say before that they were properly convicted who are now proved to have been quite innocent: did not Sir John Anderson also say that these men were properly shot whom he is now sent home to tell you were quite improperly shot?
§ Mr. HEWINSI believe I have covered all the circumstances in my answer.
Mr. CHANCELLORHas the Government decided they will do nothing to alleviate the feeling of injustice of the Cingalese people?
§ Mr. HEWINSMy answer covers that question.
§ Mr. HEWINSIt is under constant consideration.