§ 47. Mr. Stokesasked the Prime Minister on what date the first offer was made by the Chinese Generalissimo to send Chinese troops to help in the defence of Malaya; and, if refused, why?
§ Mr. AttleeDiscussions took place with the Chinese Government before the outbreak of war in the Far East, but it would not be in the public interest to discuss the details.
§ Mr. StokesWhy is it not in the public interest to say whether the Chinese Generalissimo offered to help or not? Is my right hon. Friend aware that there was a report in the "Daily Herald" on 12th January that it was being widely advertised in the Chinese papers that such an offer had been made and had been refused?
§ 48. Mr. Stokesasked the Prime Minister whether he is satisfied that the demands for men and equipment sent home from Malaya and Singapore in the late summer and early autumn of 1941 were adequately met?
§ Mr. AttleeMy right hon. Friend the Prime Minister does not wish at present to add to the full statement on this subject which he made to the House on 27th January of this year.
§ Mr. StokesIs my right hon. Friend aware that Sir Keith Murdoch has reported that the demands sent home from Malaya were whittled down in Whitehall; and can he say whether those responsible for the whittling down are still holding office?
§ Mr. AttleeI am not prepared to accept those statements without further examination; and, as I have already said, my right hon. Friend is not able to add at this moment to what he has said.