§ 72. Mr. SAKLATVALAasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he will 391 inform this House as to the reasons for the action taken by the police with regard to workers' demonstrations in Tel-Aviv, Jerusalem, and Haifa on 1st May last; the number of people wounded in the attacks and the number arrested and imprisoned; and have those arrested yet been tried and were they granted bail?
§ Mr. AMERYPolice action was taken because the Communist party in Palestine had avowed their intention of organising illegal demonstrations in the hope of embarrassing the Government. As a result of that action no demonstration took place at Haifa and at Jerusalem there were only three minor incidents. At Tel-Aviv the municipal police made a baton charge to disperse an illegal procession. I am informed that during the charge 12 persons were injured. I am unable to say how many persons were arrested or whether they were granted bail.
§ Mr. SAKLATVALAIs it the intention of the right hon. Gentleman that what is perfectly permissible and legitimate in Great Britain shall not be considered permissible and legitimate in Jerusalem?
§ Mr. AMERYThe conditions are somewhat different. In these matters we must trust to the judgment of His Majesty's representatives on the spot.