§ 4. Sir Waldron Smithersasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he has considered the details sent him about the congestion of shipping at Singapore; and, in view of the importance of our export trade, if he has any statement to make.
Mr. Creech JonesI am aware of the past congestion at Singapore, but I am informed that the position there has recently been very substantially improved. In this connection I would refer the hon. Member to the answer given him on 14th October by my right hon. Friend the Minister of Transport.
§ Sir W. SmithersIn view of the fact that there are several Government Departments involved, will the right hon. Gentleman try to institute an interdepartmental inquiry into the disgraceful state of affairs in Singapore, including shipping, pilfering and empty cargo space?
Mr. Creech JonesThe facts are pretty well known. We have had inquiries made, and I think the situation is now very much better than it was.