asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies how many cases of tuberculosis were reported in British Malaya in 1946; how many people were certified to have died from this disease during the same period; and what steps are being taken to deal with this menace.

Mr. Creech Jones:

The information is not yet available, but I have asked the Governors of the Malayan Union and Singapore for a report, and will communicate with my hon. Friend when it arrives.

In view of the urgency of this matter, will my night hon. Friend also point out to the Governors that the terrible housing conditions in Malaya have had something to do with this question?

Mr. Creech Jones:

Yes, Sir. Development schemes are, of course, under way, and that aspect of the matter is receiving attention.