§ Mr. Piratinasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what reports he has received from the special commissions that have been sent to Malaya to examine the social and economic problems: and what steps he is taking to remove the distress prevailing in the country.
§ Mr. Rees-WilliamsIf the hon. Member is referring to the recent visit to Malaya of my hon. Friend the Member for Central Bristol (Mr. Awbery) and Mr. F. W. Dalley to look into the situation of labour and the trade unions, I understand that their report will shortly be presented to me. As regards the second half of the Question, it is misleading to suggest that distress is prevalent in Malaya, though there is, of course, room for improvement of conditions there as everywhere else. I am in constant touch with the High Commissioner and the Governor on their general programme of social betterment.