§ 81. Mr. T. Reidasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what connection the half-million Chinese squatters in Malaya have had with the terrorist campaign; and what action has been taken against these squatters.
Mr. Creech JonesIn certain areas alien Chinese, many of whom have illegally entered the country and have occupied land to which they have no290W title, have furnished recruits for the bandit forces, acted as spies and sentries and provided them with supplies and shelter. Some of these squatters have already been resettled in areas where closer police control can be exercised; others have been repatriated, or are detained pending repatriation, under Emergency Regulations promulgated during November and January. A Committee appointed by the High Commissioner has recently submitted constructive proposals for absorbing into the social and economic life of the country, groups of squatters who are law abiding and wish to make their homes in Malaya.