HC Deb 03 May 1950 vol 474 cc1669-70
34. Mr. Thomas Reid

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he will now make a further statement about his proposed visit to Malaya.

Mr. J. Griffiths

I can now say definitely that, with the Prime Minister's approval, I propose to take the opportunity of the Whitsuntide Recess to visit the Federation of Malaya and Singapore, and that my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for War will accompany me. We hope to arrive in Singapore about 24th May. An official announcement is being made today both here and in Malaya.

My right hon. Friend and I are convinced that a personal visit would be useful in order that we may be fully informed on all aspects of the problem. We have every confidence in the ability of those on the spot to handle the difficult situation in Malaya. We hope that our visit will give encouragement to them in the plans and policies which they are pursuing; and will also give further evidence of the determination of the Government to carry through our task in Malaya.

I had hoped to include Hong Kong in my tour, but I very much regret that the limited time at my disposal, about three weeks in all, would not allow me to do so. I have explained the matter to the Governor. My right hon. Friend will, however, take the opportunity of spending a day or two with the British Forces in that Colony.

Air-Commodore Harvey

Will the right hon. Gentleman take his hon. Friend the Member for South Ayrshire (Mr. Emrys Hughes) along, and show him the planters at work in the worst protected area of the Commonwealth?

Mr. Griffiths

I should like to take many hon. Members from both sides of the House.

Mr. W. Fletcher

Will the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind that the two highest priorities on his trip should be to make it quite clear that we do not propose to clear out of Malaya for at least 10 years—

Earl Winterton

Never.

Mr. W. Fletcher

—and to decide whether the introduction of martial law is essential in order that the police can carry out their duties without a sense of frustration?

Mr. Rankin

Would my right hon. Friend also consider taking with him a responsible member of the Opposition, such as the hon. Member for Orpington (Sir W. Smithers)?