HC Deb 14 April 1930 vol 237 cc2638-9
69. Colonel HOWARD-BURY

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is aware that consignments of rifles and ammunition have been consigned to Jewish firms in Palestine; and how many of these have been seized by the Customs officials.

Dr. SHIELS

A consignment was recently seized at Haifa containing 149 rifles, one revolver and a large supply of ammunition. I have received no particulars of any other seizures of a similar kind.

Colonel HOWARD-BURY

Is the right hon. Gentleman taking steps to see that no further consignments of the kind reach that country, and to put a stop to this practice?

Dr. SHIELS

Steps are always being taken to deal with smuggling of this kind.

Earl WINTERTON

Are proceedings being taken against the firm or the individual who imported these rifles; and can the hon. Gentleman give us the name of the firm or the individual?

Dr. SHIELS

I should say that proceedings have been taken.

Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHY

Will steps also be taken to prevent arms going from Transjordan to the Arabs?