HC Deb 27 January 1937 vol 319 cc914-5
5. Mr. A. Henderson

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether the Ghab plan for the settlement of the Assyrians of Iraq has been finally wound up; and whether any alternative scheme has been approved by the Council of the League of Nations?

Viscount Cranborne

As the House is already aware, the Ghab scheme was definitely abandoned in July of last year. The answer to the second part of the question is in the negative. The competent committee of the League Council, in accordance with the instructions of the Council, is continuing its efforts to find a suitable alternative place of permanent settlement for those Assyrians who still wish to leave Iraq. But it is, I understand, not yet in a position to make definite proposals.

Captain Heilgers

How many Assyrians are there still left in Iraq?

Viscount Cranborne

About 20,000, I think.

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