§ 79. Sir W. Smithersasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he has considered the allegations of incompetence in the administration in Singapore, which have been sent to him, concerning the appointment of an appeal board and the War Claims Commission; and if he will make a statement.
Mr. Creech JonesI am not aware of any incompetence, on the part of the Government of Singapore, in regard to the matters mentioned by the hon. Member. At all times since the re-occupation of Malaya, regulations governing claims for compensation in respect of requisitioned property have been in operation. A new Board to adjudicate on claims was appointed on 21st June and the President was notified of his appointment on the 30th. New Rules of Procedure were published on 18th October and further rules were published on 22nd November. Claims under the War Risks (Goods) Insurance Scheme are now being registered by the office of the War Damage Claims Commission on behalf of the Board of Management.