HC Deb 19 October 1920 vol 133 cc778-9
53. Mr. KILEY

asked the Prime Minister what progress has been made in setting up the new system of government in Mesopotamia provided in the proclamation of 20th June, 1920?

Mr. BONAR LAW

Sir Percy Cox arrived in Mesopotamia and assumed the office of High Commissioner on the 4th October. The hon. Member will realise that there has not yet been time for him to formulate proposals for the future administration of the country.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

Does the right hon. Gentleman mean to say that, after nearly two years' occupation of that country, we have not yet decided upon the form of government for the inhabitants?

Mr. BONAR LAW

The hon. and gallant Member perhaps will not forget that the form of government to be decided upon depends to a considerable extent on the inhabitants.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

May I ask whether the inhabitants have been consulted on the matter during all this time?

Mr. BONAR LAW

We have done our best to consult them, but their hostile operations against our forces do not facilitate that.