§ 15. Lieut.-Colonel Liptonasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he will now make a statement as to the progress of the negotiations and the terms of the agreement relating to the proposed termination of the Mandate for Transjordan.
The Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies (Mr. Creech Jones)The negotiations with His Highness the Amir of Transjordan have made very satisfactory progress. It is expected that a Treaty recognising the independent status of 1848 Transjordan in substitution for the present Mandatory regime, and providing for cooperation between Transjordan and His Majesty's Government in future, will be signed towards the end of this week.
§ Lieut.-Colonel LiptonCan my hon. Friend give an assurance that as the legality of the whole transaction may be open to question, this House will have the opportunity of discussing all the terms of the proposed Treaty before it is signed?
Mr. Creech JonesThe Treaty in the ordinary way will be laid before the House and prior to ratification will lie on the Table for 21 days.
§ Mr. JannerWill the hon. Gentleman inform the House what steps have been taken to comply with the provisions of the United Nations Charter in this matter in view of the fact that, according to that Charter, the United Nations organisation should be consulted before any difference is made in respect of man dated territories?
Mr. Creech JonesThere is no requirement that any formal action should be taken by the Government in regard to the termination of the Mandate.
§ Mr. JannerHas the hon. Gentleman taken any steps to bring the matter before the United Nations organisation?