HC Deb 30 April 1947 vol 436 cc1941-2
40. Colonel Wheatley

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what measures are being taken in Palestine to safeguard the permanent way and protect express railway trains against sabotage by terrorists.

Mr. Creech Jones

The measures at present in force to protect the permanent way and trains of the Palestine Railways. against terrorist outrages include patrols, guards, frequent examination of the lines, and the restriction of traffic to the hours of daylight. In addition, a curfew prohibiting all movement outside built-up areas is imposed as the situation demands.

Colonel Wheatley

Would the Secretary of State consider sending out scientific experts to assist the local authorities to deal with these mines?

Mr. Creech Jones

I think it will be appreciated that this kind of sabotage is exceedingly difficult to detect, but the local authorities are taking all precautions and all possible steps to deal with it.