§ 25. Dr. Segalasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what British Consular Services are now operating in the State of Israel.
§ Mr. MayhewTwo British Consulates-General were opened in Palestine immediately the British mandate ended, one at Haifa and the other at Jerusalem. The Consulate-General at Jerusalem is situated in that part of the city which is occupied by Arab forces.
§ Dr. SegalIs not the present position somewhat anomalous, and would it not be better if the care of British interests could be entrusted to the hands of some friendly Power, such as the United States Of America—[HON. MEMBERS: "Why?"]—or alternatively, if a British Consular Agency could be opened at Tel Aviv, where it might possibly establish some contact with the Provisional Government?
§ Mr. MayhewNo, Sir, I cannot agree with the suggestion that we should put consular officials in the Jewish area of Palestine at the moment. We have to balance up the advantages of co-operation anywhere with the definite risks of assassination.
§ Mr. GallacherIn view of the solemn pledges given by the Labour Party to the Zionists, is it not time the Government were doing something to implement those pledges?
§ Mr. Mott-RadclyffeCould the hon. Gentleman explain the status of a Consul in a country whose Government His Majesty's Government do not recognise?
§ Mr. MayhewAppointing a Consul there to look after British interests does not, of course, imply recognition.