25. M. T. WILLIAMSasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he can make any statement on the methods employed by military forces 386 when searching premises for arms and ammunition in Palestine; whether civil control is maintained; and whether every step is taken to avoid the destruction of property?
§ Mr. ORMSBY-GOREAs I stated in the House on 24th June, the High Commissioner has already promised to furnish me in due course with information on the subject of allegations regarding the conduct of the British military forces in Palestine in connection with the disturbances. The country remains under the administration of the High Commissioner and of the civil authorities. The duties of the security forces as regards search, the disposal of confiscated property, and other matters are defined by regulations made by the High Commissioner under the Defence Order in Council, and I have no reason to think that there is any avoidable destruction of property or that the regulations are not being strictly and properly observed.