HC Deb 12 February 1942 vol 377 cc1570-1
21. Mr. Sorensen

asked the Secretary of State for Burma why Dr. Ba Maw was imprisoned by the Government of U Saw, now detained by His Majesty's Government, and what charges are outstanding against him, U Ba Pe and the ex-Lord Mayor of Rangoon, U Ba Win; and whether the allegation of contact with Japan applies also to these detainees?

The Secretary of State for Burma (Mr. Amery)

Dr. Ba Maw was prosecuted during the ministry of U Pu for a subversive speech and sentenced to one year's imprisonment in August, 1940. On the termination of his sentence he was detained under the Defence of Burma Rules. U Ba Pe and U Ba Win were also detained under the Defence of Burma Rules in October, 1941, but the latter has recently been released.

Mr. Sorensen

Can the right hon. Gentleman reply to the last sentence of my Question; and cannot these other Gentle men whose names he has mentioned at least be tentatively released, if they have not engaged in any subversive activity against the British Government?

Mr. Amery

I can only say that these persons were interned in the interests of public order and safety.

Captain McEwen

Does the hon. Gentleman suggest that nobody should ever be detained in any circumstances whatever?

Mr. Sorensen

Cannot the right hon. Gentleman make a precedent in this case, in view of the circumstances?