§ 38. Sir Arnold Gridleyasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he will make a statement on public order in Malaya, and on the extent of outrages by Chinese bandits.
§ Mr. George HallIn the area of the Malayan Union, depredations by isolated gangs of armed robbers operating close to towns continue to cause grave concern. With the return of trained European police officers, rigorous and systematic action to round up these gangs is being intensified. The figures for minor crime 1148 continue to improve and in some areas approach pre-war levels. One gang recently rounded up consisted wholly of Japanese who had remained in hiding.
In Singapore before 15th February, 1946, there was wholesale intimidation of workers, shopkeepers and rickshaw coolies by subversive elements whose activities approached a direct challenge to Government. The situation changed entirely after action taken on and subsequent to the 15th February. There are however still isolated case of intimidation, and there have been a number of robberies by individuals and armed gangs.
§ Sir A. GridleyMay I ask the Colonial Secretary whether he is satisfied that there are sufficient military forces to come to the aid of the civil powers to protect the lives of Malayan citizens?
§ Mr. HallThe military forces are engaged with the police in dealing with these matters, and I am satisfied that this cooperation is bringing about a peaceful solution of the matter.