HC Deb 19 July 1937 vol 326 cc1776-7
41 and 42. Colonel Wedgwood

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies (1) why the active campaign of the Mufti against the British Government is still permitted in Palestine:

(2) whether he proposes to make any changes in the administration in Palestine or in the relations between that administration and the Mufti of Jerusalem before the end of the year?

Mr. Ormsby-Gore

I have nothing to add to previous statements.

Colonel Wedgwood

Has the right hon. Gentleman read the articles in the "Times" from Palestine on Saturday and to-day, and in view of the continuous agitation by the Mufti in Syria, Galilee and Iraq—where he has produced pogroms—do the Government propose to make any change?

Mr. Ormsby-Gore

I must decline to answer that question, more particularly in view of the telegram in the "Times." I have not received any official statement of what took place. I have not heard from the High Commissioner as to the raid on the Arab Supreme Committee's offices on Saturday. Until I get that information I can make no statement.

Colonel Wedgwood

In view of the series of steps to be taken before any final decision is come to by the League, does the right hon. Gentleman not intend to take any steps whatever to change the administration in Palestine until that occurs?

Mr. Ormsby-Gore

I have not said anything about that. As a matter of fact, some change has already been authorised. The Northern part last week has been divided into new districts and new organisations, and I know that a despatch is on its way asking for supplementary British personnel. The whole question of the administration of Palestine will, of course, have to be continuously watched.

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