HC Deb 03 November 1937 vol 328 cc896-7
35. Mr. Gallacher

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies the reason for the arrest and deportation from Palestine of members of the Arab Higher Committee; what was meant by the statement issued by the Government of Palestine on 1st October declaring the members of the Arab Committee morally responsible for the deaths of Arabs and Jews, the attempted murder of Mr. R. G. B. Spicer, inspector-general of the Palestine police, and the assassination of Mr. Lewis Andrews and of Constable McEwan; whether the Government were in possession of proof of the direct complicity of members of the Arab Committee in these terrorist acts; and, if so, why this was not stated?

The Secretary of State for the Colonies (Mr. Ormsby-Gore)

The action taken against the Arab Higher Committee was a direct result of the recent campaign of murder and terrorism, which had become greatly intensified and culminated in the assassination of Mr. Andrews, the District Commissioner, and his escort, Constable McEwan, on their way to attend church at Nazareth on Sunday, 26th September. His Majesty's Government were satisfied that the activities of the Arab Higher Committee had been prejudicial to the maintenance of public security, and that they must be regarded as morally responsible for these events.

Mr. Gallacher

As one who has had associations in the past with deportees, and who realises the unfounded rumours that can be utilised against them, is the Minister not going to reconsider his attitude, and adopt a different attitude for solving the problem?

Mr. Ormsby-Gore

No. I say, quite definitely not.

Mr. Gallacher

Is the Minister not aware that he is going from one desperate expedient to another, and that the situation becomes worse all the time?

Mr. Ormsby-Gore

For a whole year the Government have exercised exemplary patience in the face of murder, outrage and rebellion, and we have come to the conclusion that forbearance has been mistaken for weakness. It is essential to restore law and order in the country if the moderate Arabs' lives, as well as Jewish lives, are to be saved.

Mr. Gallacher

Is the Minister not aware that it is not patience that is wanted? It is a sensible policy that is wanted.