§ Mr. Rees-Williamsasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what arrangements have been made for the reconstitution of the local forces in British Malaya and Sarawak, both regular and volunteer; how many recruits have been obtained for these forces; of what nationalities, and on what rates of pay and conditions of service.
Mr. Creech JonesIt has been decided as regards Malaya, that the Malay Regiment should be re-established. In the first instance the regiment will consist of a depot, headquarters, and two battalions. Rates of pay and other conditions of service are still under consideration, as are also the questions of the final strength of the regiment and the establishment of other local forces, whether regular or volunteer. In the case of Sarawak, the question of establishing local forces is being considered by the Governor-General in consultation with the local administrations and service authorities.