HC Deb 30 January 1951 vol 483 cc691-2
1. Mr. A. R. W. Low

asked the Secretary of State for War how many Malayan battalions have been formed; and how many British officers and men are serving with them.

The Secretary of State for War (Mr. Strachey)

Four battalions of the Malay Regiment have been formed. As already announced, His Majesty's Government are now prepared to meet the cost of raising two further battalions. Between 150 and 200 British officers and men are serving with the Malay Regiment.

Mr. Low

Will the right hon. Gentleman say what limits the number of Malayan battalions that can be formed? Is it the number of British officers and N.C.O.s available, is it money, or is it the policy of the Colonial Office, the Colonial Government—or what is it?

Mr. Strachey

I think it is a combination of those factors, and it is considered that it is best to form them battalion by battalion rather than to attempt to go too fast.

Major Legge-Bourke

Is the right hon. Gentleman entirely satisfied that the most suitable type of officer is serving with these battalions, and can he say what arrangements there are to attract the right type?

Mr. Strachey

I saw some of these battalions when I was in Malaya in the summer, and I formed a very high view of the British officers serving with them. The arrangement for their remuneration and conditions is worked out between us and the Colonial Office.

Mr. Niall Macpherson

Is the right hon. Gentleman satisfied with the length of service of British officers with the Malay Regiment? Is he considering the present period of service and appointment?

Mr. Strachey

All those things are kept continually under review.

Mr. Godfrey Nicholson

What volunteer or territorial formations are there in Malaya now?

Mr. Strachey

That is a question which I think ought to be addressed to my right hon. Friend the Colonial Secretary.