HC Deb 19 October 1949 vol 468 cc27-8W
37. Mr. Gammans

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he will make a statement on the premature resignation of two senior officers of the Criminal Investigation Branch of the Malayan Police Force; and for what reason their resignation was accepted at a time when the Malayan Police are short of experienced senior officers with knowledge of the country.

Mr. Creech Jones

One senior officer asked for permission to retire before reaching the age of 50 because of differences between himself and the head of his Department on matters concerning the internal organisation of the Police Force. The other senior officer reached the optional retiring age of 50 in May last. This officer had applied for permission to retire more than a year ago but had agreed to continue in the service for the time being. Notwithstanding the valuable experience of both officers, the High Commissioner decided that it was in the best interests of the Malayan Police Force that their applications to retire should be granted.