HC Deb 04 February 1929 vol 224 c1380
16. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he can now make a further statement as to the alleged infringements of ancient religious rights and customs at the Wailing Wall in Jerusalem; and, in particular, whether the adding of new courses of masonry to the top of the wall by the Moslem authorities has been stopped?

Mr. AMERY

No, Sir. I am not yet in a position to make a statement. The points at issue have been submitted to high legal authority, but the reply has not yet been received.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

Is not this a question of fact? I ask in the last part of the question, of which I gave long notice, whether the adding of new courses of masonry has been stopped?

Mr. AMERY

I am not aware that new courses are being added. The question was whether a certain superstructure was or was not permissible.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

Did the right hon. Gentleman not admit, before Christmas, that new courses were being built and that he was taking legal advice?

Mr. AMERY

No, Sir. New courses had been, but I am not certain that they are or were being added to.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

Surely if legal advice is being taken, the status quo must be maintained in the meantime and the building must be stopped?

Mr. AMERY

Yes, and, if no building is going on, the status quo is being maintained.