HC Deb 25 July 1949 vol 467 c1815
46. Major Beamish

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he has concluded his further discussions with the United Nations Acting Mediator on the subject of the five Royal Air Force aircraft which were attacked and shot down by Israeli fighters over Egypt on 7th January, 1949; what compensation he is claiming from the State of Israel; and what other action he is taking.

Mr. Mayhew

My right hon. Friend has now received further indications of Dr. Bunche's views, but has not yet concluded discussions with him, and is not in a position to make a fuller statement.

Major Beamish

Surely we are entitled to some sort of further explanation of this matter, as six and a half months have gone by since this incident took place?

Mr. Mayhew

Dr. Bunche has been successfully conducting the Israeli-Syrian armistice commission. We shall resume discussions with him shortly.

Major Beamish

Cannot the House be given Dr. Bunche's views? Cannot they be made public?

Mr. Mayhew

He has not expressed views yet, but we have been able to see observers' reports in New York.