HC Deb 20 February 1946 vol 419 c260W
Mr. G. Thomas

asked the Secretary of State for War the reasons which led to the disturbance at Singapore; and the number of casualties caused.

Mr. Bellenger

An application from certain quarters in Singapore to stop work on 15th February and to hold a mass rally and processions in order to "Commemorate the fall of Malaya under Fascist regime" was refused. It was pointed out that 12th September, the date of liberation, would be a more appropriate date for celebration. However, a procession by demonstrators was formed, and a detachment of 30 police hastened to the scene. The police endeavoured to act by persuasion, but were finally attacked with sticks, bottles and crowbars by a crowd of more than 200. The police were in danger of being overwhelmed and were obliged to open fire; two persons were killed and 18 injured.