HC Deb 09 April 1925 vol 182 cc2421-2
69. Captain WATERHOUSE

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if, in view of the law-abiding nature of the Arab protest in Palestine on the occasion of Lord Balfour's visit, he will inquire into and take measures to remove their grievances, in order to maintain their traditional friendship with, and confidence in, this country?

The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for the COLONIES (Mr. Ormsby-Gore)

It is not clear what special measures are intended. Palestine is being administered in strict accordance with the man date, and I am not aware that the civil or religious rights of the Arabs are being in any way prejudiced.

Captain WATERHOUSE

Is it not a fact that the Arabs have, or think they have, a grievance that they are lacking representation on the Legislative Council in Palestine?

Mr. ORMSBY-GORE

As the hon. and gallant Gentleman is aware, various efforts have been made by successive Governments to secure their co-operation in the Legislative Council, but so far without any success.

Captain WATERHOUSE

Will the hon. Gentleman make a further attempt?

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

Does the hon. Member think the way to get grievances remedied by a Conserva- tive Government is to offer an affront to one of the leading Conservative states men on a visit to that country?

70. Mr. DIXIE

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether the military garrison of Palestine was specially reinforced on account of Lord Balfour's visit to that country?

Mr. ORMSBY-GORE

The answer is in the negative.