HC Deb 25 February 1929 vol 225 cc1548-9
15. Colonel WEDGWOOD

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is considering the question of Palestine raising or guaranteeing a loan for the development of settlement in Palestine?

Mr. AMERY

No, Sir. In June last His Majesty's Government considered a proposal put forward by the Zionist Organisation that they should join with other Governments in guaranteeing a loan to promote Jewish settlement in Palestine. The Zionist Organisation were informed that His Majesty's Government, without finally rejecting the proposal, could not offer it any encouragement at that time. There has been no change in the position since then to lead His Majesty's Government to reconsider their decision.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

In view of the fact that Sir John Chancellor has gone there from Rhodesia, and has the question of settlement very much at heart, does not this change make it possible that His Majesty's Government might also change their views on this question?

Mr. AMERY

Sir John Chancellor has looked into the whole situation very thoroughly.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

Would the right hon. Gentleman consider asking the Government of Palestine for their views on this matter?

Mr. AMERY

They are considering the whole question of settlement all the time.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

The question of a loan is vital to settlement, is it not