§ 58. Mr. STEWARTasked the Prime Minister whether he can state what the position of the Sudan will be under the new arrangements with Egypt; whether the Sudan Government will be free from any interference from the Government of Egypt; and what arrangements, if any, have been made for securing to the Sudan a sufficient supply of water from the Nile and its tributaries for the future development of cotton-growing and other industries in the Sudan?
§ The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for FOREIGN AFFAIRS (Mr. Cecil Harmsworth)I am not aware that any change is contemplated in the political status of the Sudan, which remains as defined in existing Conventions. The 1178 geographical situation of the Sudan provides that country with a sufficient guarantee in respect of water supply, and any arrangements which may be made would be intended to secure the supply of Egypt.
§ Mr. STEWARTMay we take it that the Egyptian Government will not be able to put any impediment in the way of the Sudan in this matter?
§ Mr. HARMSWORTHIt arises from the geography of the country that the Sudan will always be able to look after its own water supply.
§ Mr. SUGDENMay I ask if the hon. Gentleman will issue a report of the railway work and cotton planting which has boon proceeding in the Sudan in respect of loans granted and guaranteed by the Government
§ Mr. SPEAKERThat raises another matter.