HC Deb 10 December 1928 vol 223 cc1693-4
41. Mr. SANDEMAN

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what steps are being taken to protect British lives and interests in Afghanistan?

Mr. LOCKER-LAMPSON

His Majesty's Government have no reason at present to believe that any British lives or interests are in danger. They are, however, in constant communication with His Majesty's Minister, who will take all possible steps to secure adequate protection from the Afghan Government.

Mr. SANDEMAN

Can the right hon. Gentleman give us any idea of the number of British people in Afghanistan?

Mr. LOCKER-LAMPSON

I believe there are one or two thousand British subjects, but very few English.

42. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether communications have been, at any time during the last few weeks, interrupted with His Majesty's representatives in Kabul; and what is the present situation in Afghanistan?

Mr. LOCKER-LAMPSON

Communication with His Majesty's Minister is maintained by wireless and has not been interrupted. I understand that the disturbances are confined to the neighbourhood of Jalalabad and Dakka and that negotiations for a settlement are proceeding between representatives of the Afghan Government and the leaders of the Shinwari tribe.