§ 15. Mr. BROMLEYasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether the recent action of the management of the Government railways in Palestine, in discontinuing the granting of annual holidays with pay and refusing to pay for statutory holidays to the staff, is with his knowledge and approval; if so, why has this step been taken; and what were the net profits of these railways during the last period estimated?
§ Mr. ORMSBY-GOREI have no information regarding the first two parts of the question. During the financial year 1925–26 the excess of the actual revenue of the Palestine Government railways over the actual working expenditure was about £104,000. This represents less than 5 per cent. interest upon the estimated capital value of the railway.
§ Mr. BROMLEYWill the hon. Gentleman undertake to make inquiries as to the position indicated in the question?
§ Mr. ORMSBY-GOREYes, Sir, we will make inquiries.
§ Sir F. WISEDo these railways belong to the British Government or to the Palestine Government?
§ Mr. ORMSBY-GOREThey have been purchased by the Palestine Government.