HC Deb 27 July 1927 vol 209 cc1244-5
61. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether it is intended to make any grant for the alleviation of suffering and damage by the earthquake in Palestine?

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

No application has been made to the British Government by the Acting High Commissioner for financial assistance in connection with the damage done by the earthquake. The High Commissioner is on the point of returning to Palestine, and will doubtless examine the whole question on his arrival and make such recommendations to His Majesty's Government as he may think desirable.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

In the case of St. Lucia and other colonies where grants were made, were requests first received

Mr. ORMSBY-GORE

Yes, Sir.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether any historical monuments in Palestine have suffered at all?

Mr. ORMSBY-GORE

Fortunately, I gather that none of the more celebrated historical monuments have been severely damaged.

Colonel DAY

Can the right hon. Gentleman say if the Government are finding any proportion of the money required for this purpose, and will it be used to feed the populace?