§ 82. Mr. WALLHEADasked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies what is the name and character of the syndicate from whom the Government has recently received an offer to purchase the Iraq railways from Basra to Bagdad?
§ The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for the COLONIES (Mr. Ormsby-Gore)As I explained to the House in the Debate on the let March, negotiations with the syndicate came to nothing. In the circumstances, I do not see how any useful purpose would be served by giving the details now asked for.
§ Mr. WALLHEADWhy cannot we have the name of this syndicate?
§ Mr. ORMSBY-GOREBecause the negotiations came to nothing.
Captain BENNShall we be obliged to continue in occupation of this country in any way if we release these railways or sell them?
§ Mr. ORMSBY-GOREThat is quite another question.
§ Mr. LAMBERTDoes the hon. Member think there is anybody foolish enough to buy these railways?