HC Deb 02 March 1970 vol 797 cc30-1
37. Mr. Biggs-Davison

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what discussions have now taken place with Malaysia about the future of the Anglo-Malaysian Defence Agreement; and to what extent that agreement still applies to Singapore.

Mr. Luard

As regards the first part of the Question, I have nothing to add to the answers my right hon. Friend gave to the hon. Member for Haltemprice (Mr. Wall) on 8th December. Since the separation of Singapore from Malaysia in 1965 there has been no formal defence treaty between Britain and Singapore; but the Singapore Government made it clear at that time that they regarded the previous defence arrangements with Britain as continuing in force.—[Vol. 793, c. 25–6.]

Mr. Biggs-Davison

Will the hon. Gentleman say a little more about the position regarding Singapore, to which this agreement presumably applies? Would he explain to what extent agreement would be required for renegotiation?

Mr. Luard

It has already been explained that we are hoping to renegotiate new arrangements which will replace the Anglo-Malaysia Defence Agreement. In the context of the discussion of the new arrangements, we will certainly be considering the position of Singapore and entering into consultation about it with the Singapore Government.

Mr. Braine

Until those new arrangements have been negotiated, can the hon. Gentleman tell the House what is the legal position of British Service men in Singapore if there is no defence treaty? How do they stand legally in connection with criminal jurisdiction?

Mr. Luard

I should require notice as to the exact legal position, but there has in recent years been no change in that. The special position of Singapore arises from the fact that Singapore withdrew from Malaysia at an earlier stage. This is not affected by our decision to withdraw.

Mr. John Lee

If a further agreement is negotiated, will it be on the basis that any services we render will be on a market-price basis?

Mr. Luard

I am not quite clear what services my hon. Friend is thinking of, but, normally speaking, if they are economic services they will be on a market-price basis.