§ 117. Sir P. Macdonaldasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies in view of the fact that his Department has now taken over responsibility for British North Borneo what steps are being taken to expedite the unfreezing of credit balances with the State Bank of North Borneo; and whether, in view of the hardship imposed on ex-internees and others who have such balances, he will arrange for this matter to have priority of consideration.
Mr. Creech JonesThe first step is the reconstitution of the records which were partially destroyed. It was the intention that the former manager of the State Bank, who was interned by the Japanese, should return to Borneo for this purpose, and to deal generally with the affairs of the bank, including the claims of depositors. Unfortunately this gentleman has recently been declared physically unfit to return, and other arrangements will have to be made. I can assure the hon. Member that this matter will receive all possible priority.