HC Deb 28 June 1916 vol 83 c872W
Mr. KING

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether, in view of the number of affidavits alleging grave irregularities in Ceylon, which affidavits are regarded by the Colonial authorities as unworthy of any credence, he intends to-give instructions that those who have sworn such affidavits shall be prosecuted for perjury?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I have no doubt that the Ceylon Government will take any action which appears to them necessary; but, since most of the affidavits in question have been sworn by illiterate persons, who were probably not responsible for the elaboration of the stories which they contain, I see no reason for giving any instructions in the matter.