§ 80. Sir H. BRITTAINasked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies at what date it is expected that the territory of Palestine may become self-supporting?
§ Captain HACKINGMy hon. Friend the Under-Secretary would prefer not to indulge in prophecy. My hon. Friend knows, no doubt, that the only charge borne by the British Exchequer in respect of Palestine is the cost of the garrison (including the British Gendarmerie), and that this charge is being progressively reduced.
§ Sir H. BRITTAINWill the hon. Gentleman invite the Under-Secretary for the Colonies to collaborate with the 1276 Governor-General of Palestine who is over here and has already indulged in prophecy? That is why I put the question down.
§ Captain HACKINGI will convey that suggestion to my hon. Friend.
§ Mr. BECKERIs it the fact that the loan made by the Crown Colonies to Palestine is not considered a charge, as I gather from the reply that we can never hope to get the money back again?
§ Captain HACKINGI said that the only charge borne on the British Exchequer was the cost of the garrison.