HC Deb 12 November 1945 vol 415 cc1726-7
8. Mr. Keeling

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether his investigations have yet satisfied him that Rashid Ali Gailani on his escape from Germany entered Syria without the knowledge of the French authorities.

9. Mr. Turton

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he is now able to state by what means of transport Rashid Ali travelled from Beirut to Saudi Arabia; and who assisted Rashid Ali to make this journey.

The Minister of State (Mr. Philip Noel-Baker)

I have been asked to reply. Inquiries are being made into the means of transport used, and the assistance given, to Rashid Ali, during his journey from Germany to Saudi Arabia. The French Government have assured my right hon. Friend that they have no evidence that he travelled through France and the Lebanon. At their request, we have given them all the information which has reached His Majesty's Government in order that further inquiries may be made.

Mr. Janner

Would the Minister see that precautions are taken to ensure that the Mufti of Jerusalem will not adopt a similar plan to that which has been adopted by Rashid Ali?

Mr. Noel-Baker

Perhaps the hon. Member will put that down on the Order Paper.