HC Deb 13 June 1928 vol 218 cc992-3
62. Mr. MALONE

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies for what reasons the negotiations between the Wahabi authorities and the British Mission under Brigadier-General Sir Gilbert Clayton have been suspended; whether it is intended that they shall be resumed at a later date; whether any agreement has been reached upon any of the subjects under negotiation; and whether the Governments of Iraq, Palestine, and Transjordan have been kept informed of the course of the negotiations?

61. Mr. NOEL BUXTON

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he will make a statement as to the subjects of discussion between Sir Gilbert Clayton and King Um Saud during their recent conversations; and whether any claims for reparation were made by King Ibn Saud in regard to the injuries by British bombing operations in the territory of Nejd?

The SECRETARY of STATE for the COLONIES (Mr. Amery)

The conversations with His Majesty King Ibn Saud have been temporarily suspended, but not yet concluded. In the circumstances, I do not think that it would be desirable for me to make any statement in regard to them at this stage.

Mr. MALONE

Can we be assured that no agreement will be signed before this House has considered the subject?

Mr. AMERY

The agreements are generally signed in the first instance.

Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHY

When will these negotiations be resumed?

Mr. AMERY

I cannot give the exact date. I hope they will be resumed in the next few months.

Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHY

Months!