HC Deb 14 April 1948 vol 449 cc953-4
39. Mr. Janner

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is aware that Fawzi el Kawukji is using new-type British 25 pounders and armoured cars in Palestine, and that these are being brought in from neighbouring Arab States; and what steps he proposes to take to stop the supply of further arms to these Arab States.

The Minister of State (Mr. McNeil)

My right hon. Friend has no information that Arabs are using British 25 pounders in Palestine, or that armoured cars used have been brought in from neighbouring Arab States. The second part of the Question does not, therefore, arise.

Mr. Janner

Is my right hon. Friend aware that in a very reputable paper, with which he is very well acquainted—

Hon. Members

Which paper?

Mr. Janner

—the "Daily Herald" —it was categorically stated that these 25 pounders were being brought in? Are they being used for the bombardment of Jerusalem, and what does the right hon. Gentleman propose to do to stop the inflow from the Arab States?

Mr. McNeil

Of course, I have no wish to make any criticism of the "Daily Herald" report, but I must say emphatically that our experts on the ground have examined that artillery and have found that they are not British 25 pounders.