§ 41. Mr. W. J. Brownasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether the McLeod Report on cost-of-living allowances in Palestine has been published; what amendments to the existing bonus system it recommended; whether these have been put into effect; what are the basis and amounts of such allowances now payable and whether he is satisfied that the present bonuses are reasonable, having regard to the greatly increased cost of living and the impossibility of obtaining many necessary commodities save through the black market.
§ Mr. George HallThe answer to the first part of the Question is in the negative. Mr. Macleod's recommendations have been put into effect and, with the permission of my hon. Friend I will send him a copy of a circular issued by the Palestine Government giving details. While I 220 realise that living conditions in Palestine have in many respects been difficult during the war, I consider that the allowances are not unreasonable. If, after reading the circular, my hon. Friend would like to discuss the matter, I shall be very ready to see him.