HC Deb 02 February 1949 vol 460 cc1652-3
10. Dr. Segal

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what representations have been made to His Majesty's Government by any of the Arab States following the release of the Jewish detainees in Cyprus.

Mr. Bevin

Expressions of regret at His Majesty's Government's decision have been received from Arab Governments. It would not be in accordance with normal procedure to publish details of such confidential communications.

Dr. Segal

Would my right hon. Friend say on what other ground these refugees were detained in Cyprus so long after the termination of the Mandate; and what were the changed circumstances which led to their sudden release?

Mr. Bevin

That is another question. That is not the point put to me in this Question.

22. Dr. Segal

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what is the estimated total cost of the Jewish Detainee Camps in Cyprus; and the cost during each year of their existence.

The Secretary of State for the Colonies (Mr. Creech Jones)

My reply contains many figures, and I will, with the hon. Member's permission, circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Dr. Segal

Would my right hon. Friend answer the last part of my Question?

Mr. Creech Jones

I think the total figure is £5,185,000.

Following is the reply:

The total estimated cost of construction, equipment and maintenance of the camps, transport of immigrants to Cyprus, etc., up to the 31st March, 1949, is £5,185,000. Expenditure in 1946–47 was £1,152,000 and in 1947–48 £3,183,000. The total sum of £4,335,000 was charged to Palestine Account in the financial year 1947–48. The estimated expenditure in 1948–49 is £850,000.