§ 31. Major Sir ARCHIBALD SINCLAIRasked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is yet in a position to state whether the 16 or 17 Jewish colonies which were still in possession of their arms in sealed armouries under the colony defence scheme at the time of the recent outbreak will be allowed to retain them, at any rate until other and adequate means of defence are provided by the Administration; and whether, pending a final decision as to the means of maintaining order in Palestine, the arms will be restored to those colonies which have been deprived of them during the last five years?
§ Dr. SHIELSAs regards the first part of the question, so fax as I have information the colonies referred to still retain their arms. As regards the second part, I am not yet in a position to make any statement as the nature of the future defence of the colonies is at present under consideration.
§ Colonel WEDGWOODDoes the hon. Gentleman hope to be able to answer the question about this protection before the House rises?
§ Dr. SHIELSI am sorry that I could not say that. I do not think it is likely.
§ Colonel WEDGWOODHas my hon. Friend communicated with Palestine and asked them the question by cable?
§ Dr. SHIELSWe are in constant communication on this and other matters.