HC Deb 09 July 1952 vol 503 cc1312-3
46. Mr. Awbery

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies when the present term of office of the Commissioner-General of South-East Asia expires.

66. Mr. Sorensen

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies in view of the imminent termination of the period of office of the Commissioner-General for South-East Asia, what new appointment is contemplated to this office.

Mr. Lyttelton

The extension of Mr. MacDonald's term of office announced earlier this year was not for any fixed period. No decision has yet been taken regarding his office.

Mr. Awbery

Is the Minister aware that it is reported in Singapore a month ago that Mr. MacDonald was to retire at the end of this year and that General Sir William Slim will take his place? Would the right hon. Gentleman deny or confirm that statement and, if it is true, does he think it desirable that two Generals should be in charge of this part of the Empire?

Mr. Lyttelton

I am not prepared to add to my previous answer, nor can I add to my duties by denying every rumour that appears in the Singapore Press.

Mr. Sorensen

Can the right hon. Gentleman at least say whether it is intended that Mr. MacDonald is going to continue indefinitely in this office?

Mr. Lyttelton

No one in this life continues in anything indefinitely.

Mr. J. Griffiths

In view of the fact that the General has been appointed as High Commissioner, is it not now desirable to ensure that there shall be a political representative in the area?

Mr. Lyttelton

That point hardly arises out of the Question, but I am fully aware of the political implications of the right hon. Gentleman's question.