§ 39. Viscount Hinchingbrookeasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies how many persons have been arrested by the military police in Palestine in the last six months for the illegal possession of arms; how many of these persons have been brought to trial; and how many convictions obtained.
§ Mr. George HallDuring the last six months, 345 Arabs and 93 Jews have been arrested for the illegal possession of arms. Of these, 159 Arabs and 17 Jews have been brought to trial, 122 Arabs and 14 Jews have been convicted and 101 Arabs and 71 Jews are awaiting trial.
§ Viscount HinchingbrookeMay I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether he is aware that the impression is gaining ground in Palestine that the administration is being somewhat lax in instituting proceedings, as these figures rather go to show, and will he secure that something is done by the administration to tighten up proceedings?
§ Mr. HallI have every confidence in the administration and that they are doing all they possibly can, in the circumstances in Palestine at the present time.