§ 25. Colonel WEDGWOODasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies when it is proposed to commence the construction of Government offices in Jerusalem; what Government buildings, costing how much, have been constructed in Palestine during the past eight years; and will wages paid to labour in such future construction be based on the cost of living of Jews?
§ Mr. AMERYPlans for the proposed new Government offices in Jerusalem are now being prepared, but the site selected for them is in dispute. I hope however that the commencement of their construction will not be long delayed. I will send the right hon. Gentleman a copy of a return showing the Government buildings constructed during the past eight years. As regards the last part of the question, the rates of wages offered for labour to be employed on the construction of Government buildings must vary in each case according to the locality and the class of workmen which it is desired to attract.
§ Colonel WEDGWOODMay we presume that it is desired to employ upon these buildings some of the many thousands of unemployed there?
§ Mr. AMERYYes, Sir. If the work is being done in the locality where they are or in a locality to which they can be brought.
§ Sir FREDRIC WISEWho is going to pay for these new buildings?
§ Colonel WEDGWOODThe Palestinians.