HC Deb 04 February 1942 vol 377 cc1195-6W
Captain Gammans

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is satisfied that the right policy was followed in leaving behind the Sultans and Rulers of the Malay States which have been overrun by the Japanese, in view of the fact that these Rulers will certainly be subjected to blackmail and intimidation, to throw in their lot with the invaders?

Mr. George Hall

As I informed the hon. and gallant Member on 21st January, the Sultans remained in their States by their own wish. No attempt was made to dissuade them from sharing in the lot of their people; and I do not think that it would have been right to make any such attempt. As I stated on 21st January, the Sultans have been assured that His Majesty's Government intend to see them righted in our final victory.