§ 18. Mr. A. Hendersonasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he will make a statement on the present situation on the border of Indonesia and Malaysia.
§ Mr. R. A. ButlerDuring the past month there have been at least twelve armed incursions into Malaysian Borneo from bases on Indonesian territory. These activities are not seriously affecting normal life in Malaysian Borneo but are a considerable irritation. Our troops are involved in support of the Security Forces, at the request of the Malaysian Government, under the terms of the Anglo-Malaysian Defence Agreement.
There have also, during the past few weeks, been several infringements of Malaysian air space on the part of Indonesian military aircraft, but these have not led to any incidents.
§ Mr. HendersonHas any consideration been given to the desirability of stationing United Nations observers in this area?
§ Mr. ButlerThis has been considered, but it is primarily a matter for decision by the Malaysian Government.
§ Mr. P. WilliamsIs my right hon. Friend aware that one of our military shortages in the Far East is in helicopters; and that if we are to meet our obligations and duty in this matter the Far East Fleet needs to be reinforced, as does the Army, in this sense?
§ Mr. ButlerI will make known what my hon. Friend says.