§ 4. Mr. Lathanasked the Prime Minister what steps have been taken to bring suggested schemes for the settlement of refugees before the Inter-Governmental Committee for discussion; and whether he has taken steps to bring such schemes before the countries of possible settlement, in particular the British Dominions?
§ Mr. ButlerThe information regarding possible schemes of settlement in the Colonial Empire, contained in the statement made by the Prime Minister on 21st November, has been circulated to all members of the Inter-Governmental Committee. All those Dominion Governments, and the Governments of other countries of possible settlement, which are represented on the Committee will thus have received the information in question. As regards schemes affecting other countries, the Director of the Inter-Governmental Committee is entrusted with the task of approaching the Governments of the countries of refuge and settlement with a view to developing opportunities for permanent settlement. In the execution of this task he will doubtless take up with the Governments concerned any schemes which on examination appear to him to be suitable.
§ Mr. David GrenfellHave His Majesty's Government made a definite announcement, or will they make a definite announcement, that they will provide adequate finance for the settlement of these refugees in the Dominions when they come?
§ Mr. ButlerThat raises a broader question, which, I think, affects the Dominions Office.
§ Mr. LathanAm I to gather that proposals in connection with the scheme have been brought before the Inter-Governmental Committee?
§ Mr. ButlerYes, Sir.
§ Mr. CluseIs the hon. Member aware of the offer of the Jewish authorities to absorb 10,000 Jewish children from Germany into Palestine?
§ Mr. ButlerI will certainly look into such a statement if the hon. Member will put it before me.