HC Deb 11 July 1922 vol 156 cc1054-5
Mr. MILLS (by Private Notice.)

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs when the last report was received from the Seychelles as to the state of health of H. E. Zaghloul Pasha; whether he is aware that relatives have failed to obtain any information since 21st June, and, in view of his state of health, are greatly alarmed; and whether he will advise those responsible to allow regular cable communications to pass between these relatives and friends and Zaghloul Pasha, as cables received in England show that great anxiety prevails?

Mr. HARMSWORTH

The last report received respecting the health of Zaghloul Pasha is dated 3rd July, and states that early in June he suffered from slight bronchitis and asthma, which have now abated. There is, however, some cardiac weakness and his general condition is not wholly satisfactory. Correspondence to and from the Egyptian deportees in the Seychelles is transmitted through the intermediary of Lord Allenby, and I am not aware whether it has been found necessary to stop or censor any of it. A report on this point is being called for.

Captain GEE

Are not the questions referring to this gentleman so frequently put entirely due to the fact that he owns five thousand odd shares in the "Daily Herald"?

Mr. MILLS

On a point of Order. After asking that question, I waited on what I presumed was to be a supplementary question, instead of a lying insult.

Mr. SPEAKER

Those are not words to be allowed in this House.

Mr. J. JONES

What about the others?

Mr. SPEAKER

If the hon. Member challenges the correctness of what was said, he can challenge it in proper terms, without using the words he did use. He can deny the allegation made.

Mr. MILLS

I respectfully ask your advice, Mr. Speaker, because—

HON. MEMBERS

Withdraw!

Mr. MILLS

Can you advise me, Mr. Speaker, as to the way in which I can deal with this kind of innuendo?

Captain BOWYER

Is it true?

Mr. MILLS

It is not true.

Mr. SPEAKER

The hon. Member must first withdraw the words he used. He is then entitled to give his denial to the suggestion of the supplementary question.

Mr. MILLS

In order to conform to Parliamentary procedure, I will withdraw those words, and substitute for them "inaccurate innuendo."

Mr. SPEAKER

The hon. Member is quite entitled to do that.