HC Deb 02 March 1938 vol 332 cc1087-8
31. Mr. David Adams

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he will make a statement as to the position in Palestine and, particularly, whether progress is being made towards the restoration of public security?

Mr. Ormsby-Gore

Terrorist activity still continues. During the last week of February there occurred one murder, three armed robberies and several cases of sniping and sabotage.

Mr. T. Williams

Can the right hon. Gentleman say how many of the culprits were captured?

Mr. Gallacher

Is the Minister not aware that if the Government stopped the terror against the Arabs, the whole question would be settled?

Mr. Adams

Can I have an answer to the second part of my question, as to whether progress is being made towards the restoration of security?

Mr. Ormsby-Gore

As I say, both military and police have been reinforced and every activity is being undertaken, but, as the House knows, the trouble is now deep-seated and widespread.

Mr. T. Williams

Do we understand that the right hon. Gentleman has no information with regard to the capture of the culprits?

Mr. Ormsby-Gore

This refers only to last week, and I could not possibly have information yet.