§ MR. LEAI beg to ask the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether his attention has been drawn to the Resolution come to by the Egyptian authorities on the 21st instant to proceed forthwith with the increasing of the height of the Assuan Dam by seven metres; whether he is aware that last year doubts were raised by men of scientific eminence as to whether the strains and stresses at present borne by the Assuan Dam, even at its present height, had been properly calculated; whether he has satisfied himself as to the want of foundation for these fears by inquiry of the best engineering experts; and, if not, will he consider the advisability of suggesting to the authorities in Egypt the appointment by them of a small committee of scientific men to go thoroughly into the matter, and so obviate the possibility of an accident happening which might cause disastrous loss of life and property in Egypt.
§ MR. RUNCIMANA despatch has just been received from Lord Cromer fully explaining the reasons which have led the Egyptian Government to arrive at the decision to raise the Assuan Dam. It will be presented to Parliament in due course. In the meantime, it would not be desirable that my right hon. friend should answer questions on isolated points in connection with this matter.
§ MR. CHEETHAM (Stalybridge)Does the Egyptian Government propose to take any steps for the preservation of ancient monuments which have already suffered serious injury?
§ MR. RUNCIMANasked for notice of the Question.