§ Lord APSLEYasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he can make any statement as to the present position of the demand by the Imperial Government for the revision of the sums hitherto paid by the Straits Settlements as its military contribution to the expenses of the garrison; whether he is aware of the strong opposition of everyone in the Straits Settlements outside official circles to tie suggested increase in this contribution as a result of local expenditure on the Singapore dock; and whether, before reaching any definite decision, he proposes to consult expert Far Eastern opinion on the subject?
§ Mr. AMERYI am not at present in a position to make any statement beyond that the matter is receiving the careful consideration of his Majesty's Government. I am well aware of the views held locally on the subject.