§ 11. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he is aware that about 140 Jewish families from Iraq and Kurdistan are stranded at Bagdad on their way to Palestine, where they are desirous of settling; that these settlers are possessed of sufficient means, having sold up all their property, but are being discouraged by the delays and are being put to considerable expense; what are the reasons for these delays; and whether he will give instructions for permits to be given as soon as possible to these people?
§ 13. Colonel WEDGWOODasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he has communicated with the Palestinian Government concerning the delay in issuing permits to the Jewish immigrants held up in Iraq?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for the COLONIES (Mr. Amery)I have now received reports on the subject from the High Commissioners for Iraq and Palestine. Lord Plumer informs me that the eases referred to are under investigation by the Palestine Zionist Executive, who will, presumably, make formal application to the High Commissioner in the matter as soon as they are in a position to do so. It is doubtful, I understand, how far the families concerned possess sufficient independent means to qualify for admission to Palestine, otherwise than under the Labour Schedule.
§ Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHYWill the right hon. Gentleman himself do anything to help these unfortunate people?
§ Mr. AMERYNo, Sir; I have to consider whether these people would be described as eligible immigrants. Therefore, the question arises whether they have the necessary means so that they should not become a burden on the community there.