§ 35. Mr. Rentonasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what steps he is taking to ensure that more and better firearms are issued to the planters and Security Forces in Malaya; and whether he can assure the House that an adequate supply of armoured fighting vehicles 58W is available in order to combat terrorist activities.
Mr. DugdaleA quantity of current pattern arms and ammunition is shortly being dispatched to Malaya to meet the demands of the Federation Government. On arrival they will be issued to the Security Forces, which include many planters. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for War assures me that an adequate supply of armoured fighting vehicles is available for the Army.
§ 75. Mr. Gammansasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies to what extent there has been delay in the supply of jungle-green uniforms and small arms and ammunition to the Malayan Police and Security Forces or to the Home Guard detachments which are at present being raised.
§ Mr. J. GriffithsThere is a world shortage of cotton materials required in the manufacture of jungle-green uniforms. Every effort to procure additional stocks is being made, but I regret that there is likely to be delay in meeting outstanding demands. In the meantime, the War Office have agreed to the loan to Malaya of 20,000 suits of jungle-green from their stocks in the Far East. The transfer of this quantity is being left to local arrangements between the Federation Government and General Headquarters Far East Land Forces. The latest requirements of small arms and ammunition for the Malayan Police and Security Forces, including the Home Guard, are being despatched to Malaya shortly.