37. Mr. Astorasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is aware that the intention of the Land Regulations in Palestine, preventing the alienation of Arab lands, is being evaded by the use of mortgage and foreclosure; and whether he will take immediate steps to amend the Regulations in order to prevent such evasion?
§ Mr. Emrys-EvansMy right hon. and gallant Friend has no reason to suppose that the intention of the Regulations is being evaded by the use of mortgage and foreclosure. The transfer of land by such methods is strictly limited by the Regulations to transfers resulting from a judicial decision in satisfaction of a mortgage 1373 executed and registered before the date of the Regulations. As the Regulations came into force with effect from 18th May, 1939, the number of such transfers should diminish from year to year and will eventually cease altogether.
Mr. AstorWill my hon. Friend inquire of the High Commissioner for Palestine whether he is satisfied on this point, and can he give me an answer when he has had time to prepare one?
§ Mr. Emrys-EvansI will consult my right hon. and gallant Friend.