HC Deb 25 February 1948 vol 447 c339W
Mr. S. Silverman

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he can now say what are the terms of reference for the inquiry into the recent disturbances in Aden.

Mr. Rees-Williams

The terms of reference for this inquiry are as follows:

1. To inquire and report on:

  1. (a) the events leading up to, and the immediate cause of the civil disturbances in Aden which started at Crater on 2nd December, 1947, and subsequently elsewhere in the Colony, more particularly in Sheikh Othman, Tawahi and Maala;
  2. (b) the question whether the Government had any grounds to apprehend the outbreak and, if so, what measures were adopted to meet it;
  3. (c) the progress of the disturbances and the main incidents which occurred therein;
  4. (d) the steps taken to deal with the disturbances and their adequacy, and the conduct of the forces employed;
  5. (e) the effects of the disturbances on the local community, including casualties and damage to property, and the adequacy of the relief measures adopted.

2. To make any recommendations in regard to (a) the prevention of similar disturbances in future, and (b) the measures to be taken should any occur.

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