HC Deb 06 April 1955 vol 539 cc1171-2
60. Mr. Awbery

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he is aware that some of the newly-established villages in Malaya are situated a great distance from the rubber plantations; that the workers are now unable to go home to their meals, as was customary; and that the canteen provisions made for them to obtain meals at the place of work are not fully adequate; and whether he will take steps to assist the employers to provide better canteen facilities.

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

I am asking the High Commissioner for a report and will write to the hon. Member when I have his reply.

Mr. Awbery

Is the Minister aware that, prior to the emergency, these canteens and villages were either in the plantation area or very near to it and that most of the workers could go there for their meals? Now that the villages are a long way off, will he, if necessary, assist the plantation owners to provide canteen facilities for their workers?

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

That may be, but I am also aware that the emergency would not now be under control if there had not been these new villages.