HC Deb 30 June 1948 vol 452 c2205
40. Mr. Skeffington-Lodge

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs in what circumstances Mr. H. J. Forbes, British manager of an oil estate in Shan State, Burma, and his wife, were murdered; and whether he will make a statement.

Mr. Bevin

I regret to inform the House that Mr. H. J. Forbes, the British manager of a Tung-oil estate near Maymyo in Burma, and his wife, were attacked and shot dead on 22nd June by a gang of about 30 dacoits, believed to include deserters from the Burmese Army and also Communists. One of the attackers has been captured. The Burmese Government have expressed their regret to His Majesty's Ambassador in Rangoon, and assured him that a full investigation will be made and that everything possible will be done to bring those responsible to justice. I will send my hon. Friend any further information on this matter which reaches me.

Mr. Keeling

As Mr. and Mrs. Forbes were constituents of mine, will the right hon. Gentleman also send the information to me?

Mr. Bevin

Certainly.