HC Deb 15 January 1918 vol 101 cc138-9
3. Mr. KING

asked whether, in consideration for the sentiments of Muslim subjects of the British Empire, it will be provided, under the new regime established or to be established in Palestine, that unrestricted Muslim control is secured of such holy places as the Haram esh-Sherif at Jerusalem and the sanctuary over the cave of Machpelah at Hebron, being places regarded as part of the birthright of the Mahcmedan world?

Mr. BALFOUR

In reply to the hon. Member's question, I will quote three extracts from the telegram of General Sir Allenby, which was read in this House, on 12th December, by the Prime Minister in answer to a question: Extract 1.—The Mosque of Omar and the area round t has been placed under Moslem control, and a military cordon composed of Indian Mahomedan officers and soldiers has been established round the Mosque. Orders have been issued that no non-Moslem is to pass the cordon without permission of the military governor and the Moslem in charge of the Mosque. Extract 2.—The Tomb at Hebron has been placed under exclusive Moslem control Extract 3.—The hereditary custodians of the Wakf at the gates of the Holy Sepulchre have been requested to take up their accustomed ditties in remembrance of the magnanimous act of the Caliph Omar, who protected that church. Further, I would remind the hon. Member that the following passage occurs in the Proclamation which General Sir H. Allenby caused to be published in Jerusalem, and which was also read in the House by the Prime Minister:— I make known to you that every sacred building monument, holy spot, shrine, traditional site, endowment, pious bequest, or customary place of prayer, of whatsoever form of the three religions, will be maintained and protected according to the existing customs and beliefs of those to whose faiths they are sacred.

Sir J. D. REES

Is there any reason to suppose that Mahomedans anywhere attribute to the British Government any disregard of their feelings, as is suggested in this question?

Mr. BLISS

Is it not a fact that Mahomedans have expressed gratitude for the respect which we have shown to their sacred monuments?

Mr. BALFOUR

Many Mahomedans have expressed gratitude.

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