§ 61. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYasked the Prime Minister whether the Government has had an opportunity of considering the situation in Iraq; whether he contemplates any change in or modification of the policy pursued by the last Government in that area: and what is the estimated expenditure in Iraq during the present year?
§ The PRIME MINISTERHis Majesty's Government are giving careful consideration to the matters raised in the first and second parts of the question in view of obligations imposed by the Mandate on the one hand and of the undesirability of remaining in Iraq any longer than is necessary to set the Arab Government on its own feet. With regard to the third part of the question, expenditure in Iraq from the British Exchequer for the year ending 31st March, 1924, is estimated at 1312 £6,900,000. I understand that a substantial reduction is anticipated for the year 1924–25.
§ Mr. T. P. O'CONNORIn any consideration of the problem of Iraq, will the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind the condition of the large number of Christians in Mosul and neighbourhood?
§ The PRIME MINISTERAs a matter of fact, I can assure my hon. Friend that this question has been repeatedly before us in connection with these considerations.
§ Mr. E. WOODAre we to understand that the right hon. Gentleman is pursuing exactly the policy of the late Government?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI am not responsible for the policy of the late Government. I am pursuing the policy which I have indicated in my answer.
§ Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHYWas it not the policy of the late Government which led to the bombing of villages?