HC Deb 21 January 1942 vol 377 cc344-5
43. Captain Gammans

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is in a position to make a statement regarding the activities of Mr. Saravanamattu, a British subject, appointed Japanese High Commissioner for Penang; and, in particular, as to whether Mr. Saravanamattu has accepted this appointment voluntarily or under duress?

Mr. George Hall

My Noble Friend has seen reports in the Press to the effect that the person named had been nominated by the Japanese to the post mentioned by the hon. and gallant Member, but he is not in a position either to confirm or to deny the statement.

Captain Gammans

Does the hon. Gentleman propose to make a declaration that any British subject who willingly co-operates with the Japanese in any territories overrun by them, will be charged with treason when the war is over?

Mr. Hall

I will call the attention of my Noble Friend to the statement made by the hon. and gallant Gentleman.