HC Deb 18 February 1924 vol 169 c1282
7. Mr. HOPE SIMPSON

asked the Under-Secretary of State for India how many Moplah prisoners have been transported to the Andaman Islands, and are now detained there; whether they are treated as ordinary criminals; and whe5her any Moplah women and children are resident in the penal settlement?

Mr. RICHARDS

In July last there were in all 1,235 Moplahs in the Andamans—all in Port Blair. Seventy-two were in the cellular jail, 12 in the adolescent gang, 40 agriculturists and self-supporters, and the rest in convict barracks. There were no special arrangements for segrating Moplahs from association with other convicts. They were treated like others, except that the initial period of cellular confinement was frequently shortened. The Government are willing to settle any who desire to stay, with or without their families; with this object agricultural and other tickets are issued freely, and the families of all who ask for them are sent to the islands at Government expense. Up to July, one family—a wife and four children—had been settled, and the settlement of three more was expected shortly.

Mr. SIMPSON

What has happened since July last?

Mr. RICHARDS

I must ask for notice of that question.

Mr. SIMPSON

Will the hon. Gentleman get particulars and bring the information up to date?

Mr. RICHARDS

I will, certainly.