HC Deb 09 February 1949 vol 461 cc357-8
25. Mr. M. Philips Price

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether, in view of the improvement of the situation in Malaya, he will consider what steps can be taken to meet any future Communist attempts in the country either by reorganisation of the labour unions, by welfare schemes among the workers or by land settlement among the Malays.

Mr. Creech Jones

All these measures are receiving the close attention of the Government of the Federation of Malaya, and much has already been accomplished, but I am bringing my hon. Friend's question to the notice of the High Commissioner.

Mr. Philips Price

Will not my right hon. Friend agree that the best way to counter Communism in South-East Asia is to settle the Malayan peasants on the land so that they are not entirely dependent for their livelihood on work in the plantations?

Mr. Creech Jones

That opens up a much bigger question.