HC Deb 09 July 1948 vol 453 cc717-8
Mr. Pickthorn

(by Private Notice) asked the Minister of State whether he has any information about the British subjects kidnapped in Palestine.

The Minister of State (Mr. McNeil)

His Majesty's Consulate-General in Jerusalem are doing everything in their power to secure the release of these five men. I regret that I have no information yet on the results of their efforts. His Majesty's representative in New York, Sir Alexander Cadogan, has been instructed to bring this incident to the attention of the Security Council. The Mediator has also been informed. I propose, with permission, to circulate in the OFFICIAL REPORT the names and designations of these men, who were discharging their part in the maintenance of the essential public services, and my right hon. Friend asks me to express his sympathy, in which I am sure the House will wish to join, to the relatives of the men concerned.

Mr. Pickthorn

May the House be assured that we shall have the earliest and fullest information as it comes to hand?

Mr. McNeil

Most gladly. Perhaps the hon. Member would care to put down another Question on Monday.

Mr. McCorquodale

Has the right hon. Gentleman any information as to the condition of these men—whether they are wounded, or well, or safe?

Mr. McNeil

I have just seen a telegram which gives some reliable but not official information in which we are assured that the men have not been ill-treated in any way.

Following are the particulars:

T. M. E. Bryant (Deputy General (Assistant)).

T. A. Downs (Technical Assistant).

W. G. Hawkins (Station Superintendent).

F. W. Sylvester (Clerk).

A. T. I. Leach (General Duties Officer) of the Jerusalem Electric and Public Services Corporation Ltd.

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