HC Deb 24 January 1949 vol 460 cc553-4
37. Mr. Chamberlain

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether the despatch of British forces to Aqaba was based on consultation with the Government of Transjordan under the Treaty of Alliance of April. 1948.

Mr. Mayhew

Yes, Sir.

Mr. Chamberlain

If consultations took place, does my hon. Friend think that the decision was wise or in accordance with the Security Council decision of 24th May last?

Mr. Mayhew

It did not conflict with the Security Council decision; it was both wise and necessary.

Mr. Chamberlain

Does not my hon. Friend think that it conflicts with Article Four of the Treaty itself, and has he examined it in that connection?

Mr. Mayhew

Yes, Sir; of course, I have examined it, and it is wholly in accordance with it.

Mr. Janner

Can my hon. Friend say whether the first steps were taken by Transjordan or by ourselves, and why, in view of the restrictions upon bringing troops into Transjordan, if the approach was made by the Transjordan Government, he did not try to dissuade the Transjordan Government from asking for these reinforcements?

Mr. Mayhew

The invitation came from the Transjordan Government.