HC Deb 17 July 1946 vol 425 c226W
Sir W. Smithers

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he will state the number of murders and armed robberies in Singapore since 1st January, 1946; and if he will issue the necessary instructions to deal with persons in illegal possession of arms.

Mr. Creech Jones

There were 39 murders and 458 armed robberies, of which 101 were robberies by armed gangs, in Singapore during the period 1st January to the moth July. My right hon. Friend is considering a recommendation by the Governor that he should be authorised to introduce more effective deterrents than are provided by the existing penalties.