HC Deb 04 May 1955 vol 540 cc1666-7
9. Mr. Sorensen

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he will give particulars of the present Singapore Legislature in respect of its composition and Ministers; and what programme of prospective legislation has been announced.

Mr. Hopkinson

Of the 25 elected Members 10 are members of the Labour Front, four of the Progressive Party, three of the People's Action Party, three of the Alliance, two of the Democratic Party and three are Independents. There are also four nominated Members, three ex officio Members and a Speaker. Details of appointments of Ministers were circulated in the OFFICIAL REPORT of 27th April.

As regards the second part of the Question, I would refer the hon. Member to the Governor's address at the first meeting of the Legislative Assembly on 22nd April, of which I am sending him a copy and also placing a copy in the Library of the House.

Mr. Sorensen

Can the Minister give any information regarding action taken by the present Government against subversive elements in Singapore?

Mr. Hopkinson

This legislative programme is a long document and includes the fact that an extension of the Emergency Regulations has been proclaimed by the present Government, but that is subject to ratification by the Assembly.

Mr. Awbery

Will the Minister amplify the reply given by his right hon. Friend last week in answer to a similar Question, and state that the Labour Front is the Left wing of the Labour Party and is forming a coalition? When his right hon. Friend said last week that Labour polled only -8 per cent. of the votes, he should have told the House that only one Labour candidate stood at the Election.