§ 50. Mr. WARDLAW-MILNEasked the Prime Minister whether, apart from any decisions that may be come to as a result of the inquiry into the recent riots in Palestine, he proposes to set up a Royal Commission to consider the future government of that country, the position of Great Britain under the mandate, and the measures which it may be necessary to take in view of the Balfour declaration?
§ The PRIME MINISTERUntil His Majesty's Government have had time to study the report of the commission of inquiry, I am not in a position to state what further measures will be taken.
§ 69. Mr. ORMSBY-GOREasked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies whether copies of the report of the Palestine Commissioners have yet been despatched to the Government of Palestine; whether arrangements will be made for simultaneous publication in Palestine and London; whether, in view of the approach of religious festivals, he will consult the High Commissioner as to 1706 the most suitable date for such publication; and whether the publication will be accompanied by a clear statement of the Government's policy in Palestine in regard to all questions raised by the report of the Commissioners?
§ The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for DOMINION AFFAIRS (Mr. Lunn)I have been asked to reply to this question. Yes, Sir, a copy has gone to the High Commissioner whom the Secretary of State proposes to consult on the question of publication. It is not clear whether simultaneous publication in Palestine and London would be practicable. My Noble Friend is aware of the considerations based upon the approach of the religious festivals Publication of the report will take place at the earliest convenient date, and will not be delayed pending its consideration by His Majesty's Government.
§ Mr. ORMSBY-GOREDo I understand from that that the report will be published by itself, and that any statement by the Government will follow publication, and not be made at the same time?
§ Mr. BROCKWAYCan the hon. Gentleman yet indicate when the House is likely to have an opportunity of discussing this matter?
§ Mr. LUNNIf my hon. Friend had listened to the first part of my answer, he would have noticed that I said that my Noble Friend is consulting the High Commissioner, and, after that has been done, possibly an opportunity may arise for discussion.
§ Mr. BROCKWAYI asked when the House would have an opportunity of discussing the matter?
§ Major NATHANIs it the Government's intention to publish with the report the whole or any part of the evidence, and, if so, will it include any part of the evidence given in camera?