§ 24. Mr. TREEasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he can make any statement with regard to the gift by the Straits Settlements to His Majesty's Government of a sum of 500,000 dollars towards the cost of Empire defence?
Mr. THOMASYes, Sir. I have learnt from the Governor that on 17th February last the Legislative Council of the Straits Settlements unanimously adopted a motion approving the gift to His Majesty's Government of the sum mentioned (which is roughly £58,000) as a contribution towards the cost of Imperial defence. I have already caused an expression of thanks to be conveyed to the Council on behalf of His Majesty's Government. This is the third year in succession in which the Straits Settlements have made a gift of this nature to His Majesty's Government, and I am sure that the House will join with me in expressing to the Colony our warm appreciation of their generous and public-spirited action.