§ Colonel Nathan(by Private Notice) asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is now in a position to make any further statement as to the situation in Palestine and the intentions and policy of His Majesty's Government in regard thereto.
§ The Secretary of State for the Colonies (Mr. Malcolm MacDonald)There were further engagements between Government forces and Arab gangs in Palestine yesterday, as a result of which the rebels suffered further severe casualties. As I announced in the House yesterday, the High Commissioner for Palestine is arriving in London this evening for consultations. He is being accompanied by a high official of the Palestine administration and by an officer on General Haining's staff. Pending the discussions which will take place over the week-end, I have nothing to add to the statement which I made yesterday.
§ Colonel NathanWhile thanking the right hon. Gentleman for his answer, may I ask whether he can give an assurance to the House that no steps will be taken which will alter the political or international status of Palestine until this House has had an opportunity of expressing its opinion?
§ Mr. MacDonaldClearly, the House must confirm any arrangement made regarding the future policy in Palestine, and the Government cannot commit the House until the House has had an opportunity 474 of passing judgment on the matter. But, in any case, I do not anticipate, in view of the fact that the Woodhead Commission Report will not be in my hands until towards the end of the month, that the Government itself will be able to reach conclusions before the House reassembles.
§ Colonel NathanDo I understand the right hon. Gentleman to mean that the House will not be put in a position of having to confirm or reject a decision already taken and put into operation, but will have an opportunity of considering the policy before it is adopted and put into operation by the Government?
§ Mr. MacDonaldYes, that is so. I hope the position is quite clear.
§ Mr. GallacherWould the Government not consider giving a little bit of self-determination to Palestine, and allowing them to have a legislative assembly?