§ 21. Mr. Sorensenasked 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. SorensenCan 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. AmeryI can only say that these persons were interned in the interests of public order and safety.
§ Captain McEwenDoes the hon. Gentleman suggest that nobody should ever be detained in any circumstances whatever?
§ Mr. SorensenCannot the right hon. Gentleman make a precedent in this case, in view of the circumstances?