§ Sir G. Foxasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is aware that planters and other employers of labour in British North Borneo were requested by the Government of British North Borneo to remain on their estates in the event of war with Japan; and whether, in these circumstances, the British Government will make some contribution towards compensating them for loss of salary as a result of their capture and internment by the Japanese.
§ Mr. Georģe Hall:As regards the first part of the Question, I am informed that it is the case that on the outbreak of the 212W Japanese war planters and other employers of labour were requested by the Governor of British North Borneo to remain at their posts. As regards the second part of the Question, the territory was not administered by His Majesty's Government but even if it had been, His Majesty's Government could not undertake to make a contribution towards compensating the planters and employers in question for loss of income. With other persons who have suffered loss of income as a result of internment in the Far East, they are eligible for the assistance mentioned in my reply to the hon. and gallant Member for Ayr Burghs (Sir T. Moore) on 7th November, 1945.