78. Mr. David Adamsasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether the execution in Palestine of the youth Ben Joseph was carried out before he had considered the appeals for a reprieve; why a retrial was refused; and why the execution was not stayed upon application being made to His Majesty in Council for a reprieve?
§ The Secretary of State for the Colonies (Mr. Malcolm MacDonald)I received many appeals for a reprieve; but, as has been repeatedly made clear, the decision in cases tried by the military courts rests with the General Officer Commanding, with whose discretion I am not prepared to interfere. Discretion as to ordering a retrial also rests with the General Officer Commanding, and I am not aware whether a retrial was in fact refused in this case. No application was made to His Majesty in Council.
Mr. AdamsDoes the right hon. Gentleman believe that the execution of this youth has added to the pacification of Palestine?
§ Mr. M. MacDonaldIt is clear that justice has to be meted out fairly, whether it is Arab or Jew.
§ Mr. McEnteeWill the right hon. Gentleman indicate to the authorities in Palestine that there is a strong feeling in this country that there ought to have been a retrial?