HC Deb 13 December 1950 vol 482 cc155-6W
21. Mr. Harrison

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if, in view of the lack of substantial improvement in the position in Malaya, he will give an assurance that all necessary military assistance is available; and if he will consider taking further steps to mobilise completely the local resources to overcome the resistance of the terrorist forces.

Mr. J. Griffiths

The strength of the military forces required for the operations in Malaya is under constant consideration; it is not at present intended to send additional troops there. The Federal War Council has already been reconstituted to include three prominent unofficials and a representative of the planters, and in order to mobilise civilian resources, powers were recently taken by the Federation Government to direct persons to undertake Home Guard duties. In addition, the Federation Government now proposes to take powers to direct manpower generally and the Legislative Council has unanimously given its assurance that it will support such a measure.