§ Mr. Henderson Stewartasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he is aware of the congestion of the courts of justice in Singapore and Malaya generally; how many persons are at present in custody awaiting trial for criminal offences there; the average time which elapses between the person being charged and the actual trial; the longest period of confinement of any person at present in custody and still awaiting trial; and what action he is taking in the matter.
Mr. Creech JonesI am aware that there is congestion. This is largely the consequence of the high incidence of crime due to the aftermath of war and conditions following the Japanese occupation. Another contributing factor is the difficulty of finding sufficient judicial staff to dispose of the business of the courts; but every effort is being made12W to fill the existing vacancies. I regret that information is not available in this country to enable me to give details concerning persons at present awaiting trial. I am asking the Governors for a report, and will write to the hon. Member as soon as I receive it.