§ 63. Mr. Jannerasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is aware that luggage of Jewish refugees who had been permitted to proceed from Cyprus to Israel had been broken open and the contents scattered and damaged by being pierced with bayonets; and what steps he proposes to take in respect of this.
Mr. Creech JonesSuspicious luggage belonging to Jews leaving the camps in Cyprus for Palestine is examined in order to recover stolen camp property and to 1558 detect concealed men of military age, more than one of whom have been found hidden in boxes. I am informed that the search is conducted with care, and that allegations of damage are unfounded. The second part of the Question does not, therefore, arise.
§ Mr. JannerWould my right hon. Friend read the Question again? It does not refer to men of military age at all. It refers to men and women who were permitted, in consequence of the fact that they were not of military age, to proceed to Israel. Would he say why those people, who have been persecuted sufficiently long, should be subjected to the indignities that are alleged here? Will he inquire into this matter, and see to it that they are returned, if that is necessary, in a dignified way, and that they are not treated like this?
§ Mr. SpeakerThat is a speech and not a question.
§ Mr. J. LewisWould my right hon. Friend say whether, when it is suspected that there is a person of military age concealed in the baggage, it is the custom to pierce the baggage with a bayonet?
§ Mr. Francis Noel-BakerCould my right hon. Friend say how many Jewish refugees there are still in Cyprus?
§ Mr. JannerWill my right hon. Friend investigate this matter? This is an extremely serious allegation, and an extremely serious position.
Mr. Creech JonesAs I have said, the allegations so far made have been unfounded, but if information can be brought to my notice I shall accordingly cause investigation to be made.