§ 43. Mr. T. Williamsasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what action he proposes to take upon the manifesto of the Palestine Arab leaders in Syria, recently published by his Department, and containing attacks upon the former Mufti of Jerusalem and the Arab Higher Commission, which is, in effect, a denunciation of the Palestine Arab leaders who are associated with the London Arab centre which has recently made itself responsible for attacks upon the British Army in Palestine?
Mr. M. MacDonaldI do not think that this manifesto, which was not published by my Department, calls for any particular action on the part of His Majesty's Government.
§ Mr. WilliamsDo I understand the right hon. Gentleman to suggest that the publication had no relation whatever to the Colonial Office?
Mr. MacDonaldNo, Sir. When this document was first published it was as unexpected by us as by anybody else, we have given it the publicity which it deserves, but it was not published by us.
§ Mr. WilliamsIn view of the contents of the document referred to and the fact that eight rebel commanders denounced the former Mufti and his colleagues, is the right hon. Gentleman still continuing negotiations with these known robbers and thieves and plunderers?
Mr. MacDonaldWe have had no negotiations with any representatives of the Palestine Arabs since the London Conference came to an end months ago.