HC Deb 13 July 1955 vol 543 cc172-3W
45. Mr. Fenner Brockway

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies on what grounds the Communist offer of negotiations to end fighting in Malaya has been rejected.

56 and 57. Mr. Awbery

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies (1) if he is aware that the insurgents have written to the Alliance Party in Malaya suggesting a meeting to bring about an end to the fighting; and if he will consult with the leaders of this party on this matter;

(2) what were the reasons for the refusal of the Government to negotiate a termination of the fighting in Malaya when an offer was made by the insurgents three weeks ago; and what are the terms on which it is now prepared to bring about an end to the conflict and the emergency regulations.

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

The leaders of the Alliance were consulted when the Communist terrorists' offer to negotiate was received; they agreed that it should be rejected for the reasons indicated in my reply on 29th June to the hon. and learned Member for Aberdeen, North (Mr. Hector Hughes) to which I have nothing further to add.