HC Deb 22 July 1946 vol 425 c1680
66. Mr. Janner

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether his attention has been drawn to Decree No. 273, issued by the Syrian Government on 23rd June, 1946, about the boycott of Zionist goods and providing for the death penalty to be awarded in certain cases of infringement; and whether, in view of the fact that such legislation is in violation of the provisions of the United Nations Charter designed to prevent racial discrimination, he will make representations to protect the interests of Palestinian citizens against this decree.

Mr. Noel-Baker

Syrian Law No. 273 of 31st May, 1946, which deals with the boycott of Zionist goods, provides for certain penalties on persons who violate the boycott regulations, but no death penalty is imposed. As my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for the Colonies said in the House, on 13th February, in answer to my hon. Friends the Members for Leeds, Central (Mr. G. Porter) and Cardiff, Central (Mr. G. Thomas), His Majesty's Government have already expressed to the Syrian Government their strong disapproval of the Arab boycott of Zionist goods.

Mr. Janner

Are not the Syrian Government a member of the United Nations organisation; and is not their action contrary to the charter of the United Nations organisation? Will my hon. Friend take steps to see that U.N.O. does something about it?

Mr. Noel-Baker

We have made our own representations already. We think that it is contrary to neighbourly conduct and common sense. I think we had better leave it at that for the present.