HC Deb 09 February 1938 vol 331 cc1035-6
69. Mr. T. Williams

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether, in view of the fact that the imposition of a political high-level for Jewish immigration into Palestine is having injurious effects on the economic life of the country, and in view of the Foreign Secretary's declaration in Geneva that this was a purely temporary measure, as well as of the Permanent Mandates Commission's opinion that it constituted a departure from the principle sanctioned by the League Council that immigration was to be proportionate to the country's economic absorptive capacity, an assurance will be given that the political high-level will not be extended after 31st March, 1938?

Mr. Ormsby-Gore

The arrangements to be made for the regulation of immigration after 31st March next are still under consideration, and I am not in a position to make any statement at this stage.

Mr. Williams

Is the right hon. Gentleman not aware that the glorious uncertainty prevailing in Palestine is having distressing effects, not only on those who would like to go there, but on those who are there at present; and will he not make up his mind as to what the policy on immigration is to be after 31st March?

Mr. Ormsby-Gore

I certainly hope that a decision will be reached shortly. I realise that until it is reached the flood of propaganda and counter-propaganda which I am receiving on this subject will continue.

Mr. Williams

In order to avoid further propaganda, will the right hon. Gentleman make up his mind as quickly as possible?

Mr. Lipson

In taking this matter into consideration and giving a decision upon it, will the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind the increased severity of the measures adopted against Jews in Rumania and other countries and the need thus created for more immigration into Palestine?

Mr. Ormsby-Gore

All relevant considerations have to be taken into account, but economic conditions in Palestine have also to be taken into consideration.

Colonel Clifton Brown

Is not this matter one entirely for the High Commissioner and not for the right hon. Gentleman?