HC Deb 26 April 1950 vol 474 c939
41. Mr. W. Fletcher

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies how many members of the police force in the Federation of Malaya and in Singapore are qualified Chinese speakers; and how this figure compares with those with similar qualifications in 1939.

Mr. Dugdale

One hundred and fifty-five in the ranks of inspector and above and 742 in the rank and file. In 1939, there were 63 in the former categories, but we have no information of the number in other ranks.

Mr. Fletcher

Will the hon. Gentleman make certain that he maintains the maximum number of police officers who speak Chinese, as they are most efficient instruments in obtaining proper intelligence for the use and protection of our forces?

Mr. Dugdale

We attach great importance to that matter.

Mr. Emrys Hughes

Will the hon. Gentleman tell us how many are ex-members of the Palestine Police Force?

Mr. Dugdale

That is quite another question.