asked the Secretary of State for War what plans have been made for the organisation of the regional economic life of South-Eastern Asia immediately after the surrender of the Japanese; and what measures are now being planned to assess and meet the needs of the population.

The military responsibility for the restoration of economic life is broadly restricted to the action necessary to prevent disease and unrest during the initial period of military administration. Arrangements have been made to meet the immediate requirements on that basis. It is intended, however, that the Civil Governments shall assume responsibility for economic restoration as soon as practicable, and close co-operation is being maintained between the military and civil authorities with that end in view.

In view of the magnitude and scope of the work of rehabilitation, will the right hon. Gentleman consider issuing a White Paper on the subject?

I will look into the suggestion.