HC Deb 09 July 1947 vol 439 cc2203-4
41. Mr. Rees-Williams

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he will make a statement on the latest developments in the constitutional negotiations in British Malaya; and, in particular, whether Singapore is to be a member, on the same terms as Penang, of the Malayan Federation.

Mr. Creech Jones

I hope to make a statement before the end of the Session. With regard to Singapore, I am unable to add to my reply to the hon. Member for Bury (Mr. W. Fletcher) on 18th June.

Mr. Rees-Williams

In view of the anxiety that is being felt in Malaya that a settlement should be arrived at, could my right hon. Friend make a statement as soon as possible?

Mr. Creech Jones

The statement will be made very soon indeed, but the delay is not unduly long because obviously a number of problems have to be resolved before a statement can be made.

Mr. W. Fletcher

Is the delay due to the fact that there are so many different Governments and so much over administration in Malaya?

Mr. Creech Jones

No, that is a completely false statement of the situation.

Mr. Fletcher

It was a question.

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