§ Major GLYNasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether the Federated Malay States revenue for 1921–22 is anticipated to meet the expenditure; and, if not, whether it is the intention of the Government to take steps to assist the Government of the Malay States to develop schemes which are thought to be practical methods of improving the revenue and developing industry, and thereby prove the gratitude of the British Empire for the great assistance rendered by the Malay States during the War?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLI regret that the answer to the first part of the question is in the negative. The great efforts made by the Federated Malay States to assist His Majesty's Government during the War and the substantial assistance they contributed to the common cause have frequently been acknowledged and will not readily be forgotten. I am happy to say that the. Federated Malay States Government, in conjunction with the Government of the Straits Settlements, have recently successfully raised a considerable loan in the London market, from which development works are being carried out. I may add that, as my hon. and gallant Friend, of course, knows, the present financial difficulties of Malaya are principally due to the unfavourable position of the world market of her chief226W products, and he is no doubt aware of the efforts which I am making to improve the outlook for the rubber industry.