§ 18. Mr. Collinsasked the Secretary of State for Air if he is aware that members of the Special Technical Corps, Singapore, who rendered signal service to the Allied cause, are still awaiting the back pay and discharge papers which were promised to them in August; and if he will arrange an immediate settlement of this question and also announce his proposals for the re-formation of the Corps.
§ Mr. de FreitasOwing to the loss, in 1942, of all records of this corps, it has been difficult to settle these points since we returned to Malaya. However, we have already cleared nearly 90 per cent. of the pay accounts and the rest are being dealt with. We issue discharge papers whenever they are applied for: 300 have already been issued. In considering the future of this corps, we shall take into account its excellent record, but I cannot yet say whether it will be re-formed.
§ Mr. CollinsIs my hon. Friend aware of the uncertainty in this matter among the men who rendered splendid service to the Allied cause, and which may operate against us at a time when we might need them?
§ Mr. de FreitasI am not aware that there is any uncertainty.