HC Deb 30 April 1947 vol 436 c1942
33. Mr. T. Reid

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what Colonies maintain or do not maintain local defence forces.

Mr. Creech Jones

Full time local forces are at present maintained in East and West Africa, Aden, Ceylon, Malayan Union, Gibraltar, Malta, Palestine, Jamaica, Trinidad, Barbados and the Leeward Islands. In addition certain pioneer and transport companies raised in Cyprus, Mauritius and the Seychelles are serving in the Middle East. The local forces in British Honduras and British Guiana are in process of demobilisation.

Commander Noble

Can the Minister give an assurance that the importance of these forces will be continually kept in mind?

Mr. Creech Jones

Yes, Sir.