§ Mr. Oliver Stanley(by Private Notice) asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he has any statement to make about the attack made on the Governor of Sarawak.
§ The Secretary of State for the Colonies (Mr. Creech Jones)Yes, Sir. The facts so far reported to me are as follow. While paying his first official visit to Sibu on Saturday, the Governor, Mr. Duncan Stewart, was suddenly attacked by two Malays as he walked from the wharf to the Government Offices. He received a stab wound in the abdomen. An operation was performed almost immediately and further surgical help was quickly sent by R.A.F. flying boat from Singapore. The Governor was taken by flying boat to Singapore yesterday and he endured the journey remarkably well. He has had several blood transfusions. The latest information this morning is that he spent a fair night and appears to have got over the immediate dangers of the initial stage. His condition nevertheless remains serious. Mrs. Stewart, who had not intended to join her husband until the New Year, left by air for Singapore this morning. The assailants, who have been 1532 arrested, are understood to be members of a group which is opposed to the cession of Sarawak to the Crown. Investigations are proceeding.
I am sure that all hon. Members of the House will share the Government's horror and disgust at this incident and will join me in expressing to the Governor sincere wishes for a full and speedy recovery.
§ Mr. StanleyMay I associate my right hon. and hon. Friends both with the Colonial Secretary's expression of horror at the occurrence and also with his condolences to the family and his wish for the recovery of the Governor? Will the Secretary of State, as far as possible when a trial is pending, keep the House in touch with developments and, particularly, tell us whether this is an isolated action or whether it appears to have behind it the backing of some party?
§ Mr. Creech JonesCertainly.