HC Deb 24 February 1954 vol 524 cc396-7
39. Mr. G. M. Thomson

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he will make a statement on the Report of the Malayan Elections Committee.

Mr. Lyttelton

The Report is now being considered by the High Commissioner in conjunction with Their Highnesses the Rulers of the Malay States, and I would prefer not to comment at this stage. Copies of the Report have been placed in the Library of the House.

Mr. Thomson

Would the Minister agree that the most important way in which we can get progress in Malaya is by as swift a political advance as is possible, and that we ought to have an early declaration from the Government, particularly in regard to the recommendation of universal adult sufferage without barrier of race?

Mr. Lyttelton

The hon. Gentleman is probably aware that the political structure of the Federation of Malaya is particularly complicated. I would ask him not to press me on this matter until further consultations have taken place with those concerned.

Forward to