HC Deb 09 February 1922 vol 150 cc283-4
14. Major GLYN

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether the Government have come to any conclusion regarding the financial position of the Government of the Sudan, with special reference to the dam at present under construction; and whether it is the intention of the Government to give financial assistance to the Sudan for this specific purpose?

Mr. HARMSWORTH

I regret that at present I can add nothing to the reply which I made to a similar question by the hon. and gallant Member on the 9th November last.

Major GLYN

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that until this matter is settled there is no chance of developing the Sudan in the interests of British trade?

Mr. HARMSWORTH

I am aware that the matter is of much importance, and I know that it is receiving earnest consideration.

Earl WINTERTON

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that, owing to the delay of His Majesty's Government, the Sudan Government have been put to considerable expense, because they have had to keep on workmen owing to their not knowing the policy of His Majesty's Government? Will the hon. Gentleman ask his chief to deal with this matter at the earliest possible opportunity? Is he aware that several thousands of pounds expenditure have been incurred owing to the delay of His Majesty's Government?

26. Major GLYN

asked the Prime Minister whether the Government have come to any definite conclusion regarding the future status, government and administration of the Sudan; whether the recently-published official statement of the Government dealing with the policy concerning Egypt is to include the Sudan or to imply that negotiations for the future government of the Sudan will form the subject of a separate conference?

Mr. HARMSWORTH

The status of the Sudan is defined by the Anglo-Egyptian Convention of 1899. The views of His Majesty's Government with regard to that country are explained by the terms of Section VII of the Memorandum submitted to Adly Pasha on 10th November last, which has been laid before the House.