§ 14. Colonel HOWARD-BURYasked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies whether the conversations with the Jewish agency have concluded; and whether he can make a further statement about the proposals with regard to development in Palestine?
§ The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for the COLONIES (Dr. Drummond Shiels)The conversations are now at 188 an end, and I hope that it may be possible to a make a further statement in the near future.
§ Colonel HOWARD-BURYIn view of the fact that the hon. Member has satisfied the Jewish interests, will he not take steps to see that the Arab interests are equally satisfied?
§ Dr. SHIELSI never said that we had satisfied Jewish interests. What I said to the hon. Member before, and what I say now, is that an opportunity has been given to both parties to consider the subject.
Earl WINTERTONIn view of the disturbing nature of the news from Palestine as to the state of feeling between the two communities, will the hon. Gentleman consider publishing a White Paper stating exactly what the basis of the conversations has been?
§ Dr. SHIELSI do not think that is necessary. What the conversations were about is quite well-known. They were about the new development scheme, on which a statement will be published very shortly.
Earl WINTERTONIs it not very necessary, in order to alleviate the fears of the Arab community, for the Government to state what these conversations have been about?
§ Dr. SHIELSThese conversations merely afforded an opportunity for both sides to give their views on the development proposals of His Majesty's Government, and the results of those conversations will be evident in the statement which will be made very shortly.
§ Mr. McSHANECan the hon. Gentleman say when that statement will be made—within a week or two, or a month?
§ Dr. SHIELSI should think it will be ready within the next few weeks.