HC Deb 13 November 1929 vol 231 c2025
36. Colonel HOWARD-BURY

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies whether the draft agreement with Mr. Novamesky for the Dead Sea Concessions, whose terms were given in the White Paper isued three days before the dissolution, has now been ratified?

Mr. LUNN

As I stated in reply to a question on 17th July, a preliminary agreement was signed on 22nd May. The final draft of the concession is now under consideration.

Colonel HOWARD-BURY

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that in a White Paper issued two days before the Dissolution we were promised a discussion on the matter before it is finally ratified, and will that take place?

Mr. LUNN

I cannot answer for any promise made by a previous Government.

Colonel HOWARD-BURY

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that this is one of the causes of the trouble in Palestine?

Mr. LUNN

The question is not whether the Government will provide an opportunity for discussion.

Rear-Admiral BEAMISH

Is the House to understand that this agreement has been under consideration since July?

Mr. LUNN

The hon. and gallant Gentleman may understand that the answer I have given is a correct one.

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