HC Deb 23 March 1949 vol 463 cc356-7
27. Mr. Piratin

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he is aware that Mr. Ganapathy, the former President of the Pan-Malayan Federation of Trade Unions, has been sentenced to death in Malaya; and if he will state the charges upon which the death sentence has been passed.

Mr. Creech Jones

This man was tried on 15th March on a charge of unlawfully carrying a revolver and six rounds of ammunition. He was found guilty and sentenced to death. He has appealed and the appeal is still pending.

Mr. Piratin

As he has appealed, I hope the appeal will be successful and may I ask—

Mr. Speaker

If there is an appeal I gather the matter is sub judice and the hon. Member cannot ask further questions.

Mr. Piratin

I would like to ask a question of a general kind and not attempt to deal specifically with the incident. Is there a law in Malaya which permits the authorities to send a man to gaol for carrying a revolver?

Mr. Creech Jones

I have made a complete statement to the House regarding the emergency regulations and the new ordinances necessary under the existing emergency.