HC Deb 26 November 1947 vol 444 cc1964-6
21. Mr. Janner

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he is aware that the Palestine Government has decided to advertise in Palestine newspapers inviting tenders for the purchase of 69 Government plots of state-owned land on the sea shore near Haifa by private buyers; and whether he will give instructions to discontinue these proposed sales in view of the negotiations now proceeding in the U.N. on the disposal of Palestine Government assets, including state lands.

Mr. Creech Jones

I am aware that the Palestine Government has decided to sell certain state-owned land at Haifa, and I see no reason to intervene in the matter. So long as the present Palestine Government remains responsible for the administration of the country it must be free to act as it thinks best in the interests of the "inhabitants of the country.

Mr. Janner

But is my. right hon. Friend aware that a joint deputation of Arabs and Jews approached the municipality of Haifa to stop this outrageous thing—[HON. MEMBERS: "Oh."]—Oh, yes—and that a protest is coming from the municipality to the Palestinian Government; and will he take that into consideration in advising the Palestine Administration? May I also ask my right hon. Friend at the same time why we are in such indecent haste, when the United Nations are themselves proposing to deal with these matters in a Commission shortly?

Mr. Creech Jones

This is not a hasty decision. This matter has been under consideration for some time, and it is imperative that the Palestine Government should realise certain of its assets.

Mr. Janner

Will the Minister leave the till?

Mr. S. Silverman

If it is true, as alleged, that both Arabs and Jews have protested against this procedure, why does my right hon. Friend say that it is done in the interests of the people of the country?

Mr. Creech Jones

I have pointed out that this policy is being pursued in the best interests of the inhabitants generally, and it is the function of the Administration of Palestine to meet the somewhat difficult position in which it is at the moment.

Mr. Janner

But may I again appeal to my right hon. Friend—[HON. MEMBERS: "No."] I am entitled to appeal, surely? [HON. MEMBERS: "No."] All right. Will my right hon. Friend reconsider the decision, in view of the fact that Arabs and Jew's have sent this joint deputation and that they all want this stopped?

Mr. Creech Jones

Some Arabs and some Jews have made representations.