HC Deb 28 April 1948 vol 450 c366
3. Mr. Swingler

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs under what circumstances His Majesty's Government is prepared to carry on, or participate in, the administration of Palestine after 15th May.

Mr. Bevin

My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for the Colonies stated on 16th October, 1947, in his speech to the Palestine Committee of the United Nations General Assembly, that, in the event of a settlement between Jews and Arabs, His Majesty's Government would, if so desired, continue the administration of Palestine through the limited period of the transfer to independence; and that they would consider an invitation to participate in giving effect to such a settlement in partnership with other members of the United Nations. But there has been no agreement between Jews and Arabs. Moreover, the withdrawal of British administrative personnel has now begun and is rapidly proceeding, and His Majesty's Government cannot reverse the process at this late hour.

Lieut.-Colonel Lipton

Can my right hon. Friend say whether any negotiations are taking place with the United States of America, the effect of which would be to require the presence of British troops in Palestine after 1st August next?

Mr. Bevin

No, there are no such negotiations. The only thing going on is what is going on in the United Nations Assembly.