§ 23. Mr. Ronald Chamberlainasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what steps His Majesty's Government have taken in support of the continuance or renewal of the truce in Palestine; and whether he will make a statement.
§ Mr. MayhewShortly before the expiry of the period of truce in Palestine the United Nations Mediator requested both parties to agree to an extension of the truce. The Jewish authorities agreed to this extension, but the Arab League refused it.
On 7th July Sir Alexander Cadogan introduced in the Security Council a resolution calling upon the parties to comply with the Mediator's request. The resolution was adopted, but it came too late to be taken into account by the Political Committee of the Arab League before they decided against a prolongation of the truce. His Majesty's Government, who had already used their influence with the Arab Governments in support of the Mediator's request, now urged them to re-convene the Political Committee in order to consider the resolution of the Security Council. I am glad to inform the House that the Arab Governments have decided to take this step, and I am informed that the Political Committee will meet in the next day or two. It is the earnest hope of His Majesty's Government that, in view of the backing given to the Mediator by the Security Council, they will reach a different decision at this meeting.
Meanwhile the Security Council is considering a further resolution, introduced yesterday by the Delegate of the United States and generally supported by the United Kingdom delegate, requiring the renewal of the truce within three days and threatening sanctions if this is refused.
§ Mr. ChamberlainWhile I appreciate what my hon. Friend has said, and also the great difficulty and complexity of the situation, may I ask him if he could add a word with regard to two points: first, is everything being done towards the demilitarisation of Jerusalem? Secondly, is anything being done for the protection of the oil refineries at Haifa?
§ Mr. MayhewPerhaps the hon. Member would put down the two questions.
§ Mr. StokesMay I ask my hon. Friend, in view of the statement he has just made, and in order to avoid misunderstanding, whether what he has just stated means any change whatever in the policy of His Majesty's Government?
§ Mr. MayhewNo, Sir. I would make it clear that it implies no change of policy. We have always been a strong supporter of the truce, and we are in no way committed to the terms of any final settlement.
§ Mr. ChamberlainCan we be assured by the Minister that the strong line by the Security Council asked for by Count Bernadotte will be supported by our Government? Could I have an answer?
§ Mr. MayhewIt is clear that the truce may be renewed. It is also clear that we are doing our best to ensure it, and I would rather not add to what I have said at this time.