§ 33. Mr. Platts-Millsasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he will make a statement regarding the criticisms contained in the report of the United Nations Palestine Commission alleging that His Majesty's Government is refusing to allow the Commission to go to Palestine earlier than 1st May; is refusing to arrange a progressive transfer of authority; and that it is taking financial and economic steps without consulting the Commission.
§ Mr. MayhewMy right hon. Friend dealt with these criticisms in his speech on the Second Reading of the Palestine Bill and in subsequent speeches during the Committee stage of that Bill. The United Nations' Commission have been kept closely informed of all the intentions and actions of the Palestine Administration and their views have been sought whenever possible before any steps of major importance have been taken.
§ Mr. Platts-MillsWill my hon. Friend say whether we still intend to withdraw by the date we have given as our withdrawal date, and whether we still stand by the United Nations Resolution for partition?
§ Mr. MayhewOur policy has been made perfectly plain, and I have nothing to add to it.
§ Mr. Ronald ChamberlainOn the third part of the Question, could the Under-Secretary assure us that the supply of bread grains and sugar to 30th June is now assured, as requisitioned by the representative of the Commission in London?
§ Mr. MayhewThat is another question, which perhaps the hon. Member will put down.
§ Mr. JannerWill my hon. Friend have published the contents of this very scathing criticism of our action, or at least put a copy of this document in the Library so that hon. Members will see that they have been misled by previous statements?