HC Deb 09 August 1920 vol 133 cc20-1
40. Mr. RAPER

asked the Prime Minister what is the exact scope of the powers embodied in the Mandates granted to Great Britain for Mesopotamia and to France for Syria; and if these Mandates empower military occupation without reference to the wishes of the majority of the inhabitants?

Mr. BONAR LAW

The terms of the Mandates have not yet been finally settled.

41. Mr. RAPER

asked the Prime Minister on what date the Mandate was given to France regarding Syria; by whom and on whose behalf the Mandate was signed: and if he will now acquaint the House with the exact terms of the Mandate?

Mr. BONAR LAW

An answer to this question was given to my hon. Friend on Thursday, 29th July.

Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHY

Would it not be better to drop the whole pretence of Mandates, and come to some other arrangement at once?

Mr. RAPER

May I ask if the previous reply was not to the effect that he could not tell us? May we now be told?

Mr. BONAR LAW

That was one of the questions as to which we said it was impossible to give the terms of the Mandate, and it is not possible now.

Mr. RAPER

Will it be possible before the Recess?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I do not think so.

53. Major ENTWISTLE

asked the Lord Privy Seal what were the precise terms of Rustem Haibar Bey's protest to the League of Nations against the French action in Syria?

Mr. HARMSWORTH

It would seem to be for the League of Nations itself to publish such communications if it thinks fit to do so.