§ 33. Sir Ernest Bennettasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether any legal proceedings are being taken against a body of Jewish immigrants, landed on 7th February from the Greek steamship "Artemisi" on the Palestine coast north of Jaffa, and against the agents who conveyed these illegal immigrants inland after their landing?
Mr. M. MacDonaldThe crew of the steamer in question, together with 17 passengers, have been arrested and are being prosecuted for offences against the provisions of the Customs and Immigration legislation before the Chief Magistrate at Tel Aviv to-day. It has not, so far, proved practicable to take any action against the local agents, but the feasibility of doing so is under review
§ Sir E. BennettWill the ships be, or have they been, confiscated, under any provision of the Palestinian law?
§ Mr. BeaumontWill these illegal immigrants be deported?
Mr. MacDonaldAs I say, action is being taken against those who have been arrested. Pending the decision before the magistrates I cannot make any statement.
§ Mr. ManderWhy harry these unfortunate people?
§ Mr. CrossleyWill the number of these illegal immigrants be taken into account when the numbers of legal immigrants are next considered?
§ Mr. LeachHas not the right hon. Gentleman's own Department caused these people to be in an illegal position?