§ 74. Colonel HOWARD-BURYasked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he can state the amount of potash that has yet been recovered from the Dead Sea under the concession given to Mr. Moses Novamesky; whether Arab and Jewish labour is employed on these works; whether when working side by side on similar work equal pay is given; and whether the contracts for the machinery required have been given to British firms?
§ Dr. SHIELSI have seen a statement to the effect that Palestine Potash Limited have produced a small consignment for shipment; but I have received no official report on the subject. I understand that both Arab and Jewish labour is employed on these works, but I am not aware of the precise terms of employment. I am unable to say where the company has placed its contracts for machinery.
§ Colonel HOWARD-BURYWill the hon. Member make representations to the company to see that contracts for 1722 machinery are placed in this country, and not as under the Rutenburg scheme?
§ Dr. SHIELSNo, Sir, I should not be prepared to give such an undertaking. The hon. and gallant Member must realise that Palestine is mandated territory, and it would not be proper to give such an undertaking.