§ 1. Sir Patrick Hannonasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies the extent of injuries inflicted upon the Holy Places by recent riots and outrages in Jerusalem and Bethlehem, and if, before the evacuation of British military forces and civilian personnel from Palestine, full details of the loss and damage incurred will be compiled with a view to rehabilitation following the establishment of an administration under the United Nations organisation.
§ The Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies (Mr. Rees-Williams)On 26th April my right hon. Friend was informed by the High Commissioner that no damage of any kind had been caused to the Holy Places in Bethlehem and no structural damage had been caused in Jerusalem. A few stray bullets have hit the Dome of the Rock and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, but damage caused is only superficial and external. In these circumstances it is not considered necessary to compile the register suggested in the second part of the Question.
§ Sir P. HannonSupposing loss or damage occurred before the conclusion of the Mandate on 15th May, would His Majesty's Government take into consideration any damage which had occurred and compile details with a view to compensation?
§ Mr. Rees-WilliamsThat is another question, and is not covered by the Question on the Order Paper.