§ 43 Mr. Manderasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what action it is proposed to take with reference to the appointment of a mayor of Jerusalem to take the place of Dr. Khalidi, recently deported, whether by appointing the deputy-mayor to act as mayor, or an Englishman with experience of local government in this country, or whether it is proposed to hold a new election?
§ Mr. Ormsby-GoreThe Acting High Commissioner has this matter under consideration, but I am not yet in a position to say what action it may be decided to take. In the meantime, in accordance with the provisions of the Municipal Corporations Ordinance, the deputy-mayor is performing the duties of mayor.
§ Mr. ManderIn making any appointment will the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind that the Jews constitute two thirds of the population of Jerusalem and have had a majority for 80 years?
§ Mr. Ormsby-GoreI understand that the deputy-mayor who is now acting as mayor is a Jew.
§ Mr. Benjamin SmithWill the right hon. Gentleman also take notice that in Palestine as a whole the Arabs are two-thirds of the population as against the Jews?