HC Deb 13 December 1950 vol 482 cc1132-3
14. Mr. Wyatt

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he will make a statement on the report of the Benham Salaries Commission of the Federation of Malaya, with particular reference to the benefits recommended for Europeans and Malays, respectively.

Mr. J. Griffiths

The Report of the Benham Salaries Commission was adopted by the Legislative Council of the Federation of Malaya at its meeting on 21st November, subject to reservation of certain posts on which further consultation between the Federation and Singapore Governments and myself is required, and with a proviso that the staff concerned may opt for direct negotiation within four weeks. With regard to the last part of the Question, I must point out that the Report does not affect the present practice by which the same basic salary applies to a post whether it be held by a European or by an Asian.

Mr. Wyatt

Will my right hon. Friend bear in mind that there is considerable discontent among Asians with technical ability because Europeans doing exactly the same jobs as themselves are getting paid more than they are? Can he explain how he justifies this racial discrimination?

Mr. Griffiths

They are paid the same basic salary, but there is for the expatriate officer an expatriate allowance and, without this, it would be impossible to recruit the necessary Europeans.

Mr. Dodds-Parker

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that a 50 per cent. expatriate allowance is usual for people who work outside their own country?