HC Deb 12 April 1922 vol 153 c387
5. Mr. LUNN

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he is aware that for four days last month One officer and four armed soldiers were posted at Madame Zaghloul's house in Cairo, and that many others occupied the streets leading to the house, and that Madame Zaghloul was, during that period, kept a prisoner in her house, and no man, woman, or child was allowed in; whether the armed guard were acting on instructions from the British military authorities; and, if so, if he will say on what ground this action was taken against Madame Zaghloul?

Mr. HARMSWORTH

The only information on this incident I have is that, as a precautionary measure on the part of the police responsible for public order, a guard was placed on Zaghloul Pasha's house from the 20th March to 23rd March to prevent unauthorised persons from entering.

Mr. LUNN

Will the hon. Gentleman answer that part of the question which asks why Madame Zaghloul was kept in the house, and not allowed to leave?

Mr. HARMSWORTH

I am quite prepared to leave these matters to the Egyptian Government.

Captain GEE

Is it not a fact that this guard was put on this house at the request of the members of this gentleman's family and for the safety of the family?

Mr. HARMSWORTH

I have no information further than that which I have already given.