HC Deb 04 February 1929 vol 224 cc1379-80
15. Colonel HOWARD-BURY

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies on what date Mr. Novomeysky made his first application and presented his first scheme on the Dead Sea and to what official body?

Mr. AMERY

Mr. Novomeysky's first formal application was made to the High Commissioner in July, 1921.

Mr. CRAWFURD

I did not catch the answer. Was it 1921?

Mr. AMERY

Yes.

Mr. CRAWFURD

May I ask whether the delay in bringing this matter to a conclusion is in any sense due to the fault of the persons to whom the concessions have been granted?

Mr. AMERY

No, I do not think so.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

Is it not due to the persistent questioning of the hon. and gallant Member for Chelmsford (Colonel Howard-Bury)?

Mr. CRAWFURD

In view of what has been said, may I ask whether it is not a British group?

Mr. AMERY

It is a group headed by Major Tulloch and M. Novomeysky. Major Tulloch is a British subject, and M. Novomeysky a Palestinian subject.

Colonel HOWARD-BURY

Has not Major Tulloch signed a power of attorney to M. Novomeysky, and handed over complete control of the concession?

Mr. AMERY

I have not heard of that.