§ 29. Mr. Chamberlainasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether arrangements have been made to continue at least until the end of June the supply of essential foods, particularly bread grains and sugar, to Palestine, recently requested by the representatives in London of the United Nations Palestine Commission.
§ Mr. MayhewThe High Commissioner for Palestine has issued import licences to cover essential requirements of food up to 30th June, including meat, oils and fats and wheat flour. Shipments of sugar now afloat or due to be loaded will suffice up to 30th June. Meat and oils and fats are normally procured through ordinary commercial channels and the Ministry of Food is assisting with advice in regard to procurement areas. His Majesty's Government are making available for Palestine 26,000 tons of wheat flour against credits to be provided by agents acting on behalf of Jewish and Arab interests.
§ Mr. ChamberlainWhile thanking my hon. Friend for that reply, may I ask him for an assurance that, in spite of the present difficulties, His Majesty's Government will continue to do all that is possible to supply Palestine with food, so that starvation is not added to the other troubles?
§ Mr. MayhewI can only refer to my reply, which shows, I think, that we have taken great pains and some foresight to try to overcome this difficulty.