§ 45. Mr. KINGasked the Prime Minister whether, in the course of assurances given by the British Government or any of the Allied Governments during the War that the holy places of Islam would be respected, any indication has been given or any question raised of the exact number, extent, and localities of such holy places; and whether he will indicate whether Baghdad and Jerusalem are considered to be holy places included in the Government undertaking?
§ Lord R. CECILMy right hon. Friend has asked me to reply. For a definition of the holy places of Islam, I would refer the hon. Member to the announcement which was published in the extraordinary "Gazette of India," of the 2nd November, 1914.
§ Lord R. CECILI will send the hon. Member an extract from it.
§ Sir J. D. REESMay I ask the Noble Lord if he does not think that Mahomedans are likely rather to resent questions showing complete ignorance on the questions of holy places of Islam?
§ Lord R. CECILI am not responsible for the questions put down.
§ Mr. KINGIs the hon. Gentleman aware that I was asked by a very distinguished Mahomedan to bring this matter forward, and that my questioner is really very well informed?