HC Deb 12 December 1938 vol 342 cc1579-80
7. Mr. Hannah

asked the Prime Minister whether the Government are aware of the damage to British prestige from the continued homelessness of the Assyrian Christians; and whether, in view of the importance of the whole problem of refugees, he will consider the possibility of finding the Assyrians a settlement in Cyprus or Socotra?

Mr. Butler

Reports recently submitted to the Council of the League of Nations show that the Assyrians established in Iraq and Syria are on the whole in a satisfactory position. It has proved impossible to settle the Assyrians in the islands mentioned.

Mr. Hannah

Is it not desirable in the interests of the whole British Empire that we should try to settle this refugee question?

Mr. Butler

An attempt has been made, and from the reports submitted to the League of Nations, I am satisfied that the position of the Assyrians in Iraq and in Syria is, on the whole, satisfactory.