HC Deb 28 June 1939 vol 349 cc400-1
38. Mr. Mander

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he will ask the Mandates Commission to arrange for the publication of the report and evidence of their proceedings on the subject of the Government's policy in Palestine at the earliest moment, in view of the world-wide interest in the question and the uncertainty as to the future that exists?

Mr. M. MacDonald

The arrangements for the preparation of the report of the Permanent Mandates Commission, and for its submission to the Council of the League of Nations, fall within the discretion of the Commission themselves. I have no doubt that they will arrange for publication as early as possible before the September meeting of the Council.

Mr. Mander

Will the right hon. Gentleman be good enough to inquire whether it would not be possible to publish the report in July instead of August, when it generally comes out, so that the House may have an opportunity of considering it before we adjourn?

Mr. MacDonald

The Mandates Commission have not yet finished the consideration of their report, and pending that consideration I think it will be impossible for me to add anything to what I have said.

Mr. Noel-Baker

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider asking the Mandates Commission to publish their report on Palestine as a separate document before they finish all the rest of their work?

Mr. MacDonald

I will keep that matter in mind, but while the Mandates Com- mission are still considering what their report should be, I think it would be premature to make any suggestion.

Mr. Noel-Baker

If the Commission do terminate their work, would it not be desirable that Parliament should have the report before it rises in August?