HC Deb 05 March 1952 vol 497 c423
42. Mr. Wyatt

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what discussions took place with local representative leaders before the Deputy High Commissioner was appointed in Malaya.

Mr. Lyttelton

The creation of the post of Deputy High Commissioner for the period of the emergency was discussed and approved by Their Highnesses the Rulers and the Federal Legislative Council.

Mr. Wyatt

Does the right hon. Gentleman realise that this appointment of a person from this country, over-riding local feeling and losing the opportunity to appoint a highly qualified local person, is going the wrong way about getting the sympathies of the Malayans on our side?

Mr. Lyttelton

That is a matter of opinion, in which I differ strongly from the hon. Member.