HC Deb 09 July 1930 vol 241 cc398-9
8. Mr. WARDLAW-MILNE

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether Mahran Ebeid Bey and Ahmed Maher Bey, two members of the delegation which recently negotiated with His Majesty's Government regarding Egypt, have again left Egypt for this country; if so, whether they are coming with the object of reopening negotiations or discussing with His Majesty's Government the situation in Egypt; and whether their visit has been arranged upon the invitation of or with the knowledge of His Majesty's Government?

Mr. A. HENDERSON

The reply to the first part of the question is in the affirmative, and to the last part in the negative. I understand that the gentlemen referred to in the question are coming to attend the meeting of the Inter-Parliamentary Union.

9. Mr. WARDLAW-MILNE

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he will give the House the latest information as to the situation in Egypt, and particularly whether any riots or disorders have occurred resulting in attacks upon British or other Europeans?

Mr. HENDERSON

I am unable to amplify the reports of recent events which have appeared in the Press, but I have no information that these events have involved any attacks upon British or other Europeans.

Mr. WARDLAW-MILNE

May we take it that there is no truth in the report that Italian subjects have been injured?

Mr. HENDERSON

I have no information to lead me to think any such thing.

Mr. MARJORIBANKS

Are not these riots the direct result of the negotiations initiated by the right hon. Gentleman?

Mr. THURTLE

Is the British Government adopting an attitude of strict neutrality in regard to the present crisis in Egypt?

Mr. HENDERSON

I think I have already answered more than one question declaring that our position was strictly neutral.