§ 11. Mr. PENNYasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether the Federated Malay States Government accepts any responsibility for the Perak hydro-electric scheme; whether the contract just concluded was first submitted to it; whether the contract received the sanction of the Federal Council; and, if not, why it was submitted to this body?
§ Mr. AMERYIt was considered that the grant of this concession within. the State of Perak was a matter for that State, and the agreement was brought before the Perak State Council and not the Federal Council for approval. The Federated Malay States Government. has expressed its willingness to assist, if 1638 necessary, in certain respects, in carrying out the scheme, and the question of its participation is now the subject of negotiations. On this matter the Finance Committee of the Federal Council has, I believe, been fully consulted throughout and no doubt the matter will come before the Federal Council in due course.
§ Mr. PENNYIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that action like this will create suspicion in the minds of and a lack of confidence in the integrity of the Government among these public men who carry out these duties? This document was laid before them after it had been signed.
§ Mr. AMERYI understand that the Financial Committee of the Federal Council has been consulted throughout. It is primarily a matter for the State of Perak.