HC Deb 19 April 1948 vol 449 cc1440-1
63. Sir Patrick Hannon

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs to what extent proposals for a truce between Arabs and Jews at the instance of the United Nations organisation have had sympathetic response; and if he entertains hope of the suspension of hostilities pending the establishment of a new administration in succession to the determination of the mandate.

Mr. McNeil

The truce proposals have, unfortunately, had little practical effect so far. However, a further resolution, following that of 1st April, was adopted by the Security Council on 17th April, calling for a truce and indicating in detail the measures to be taken by those concerned to restore peace; and I hope that it will elicit a sympathetic response.

Sir P. Hannon

Is the Foreign Secretary intervening in this matter in order to expedite the conclusions that ought to be reached so as to get a truce between Arabs and Jews in Palestine?

Mr. McNeil

My right hon. Friend the Colonial Secretary is in New York at this time, and I am certain that he will contribute any advice appropriate to this subject, but, of course, the British Government have already declared themselves in support of a truce.