HC Deb 16 May 1949 vol 465 cc18-9
42. Sir P. Hannon

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs when he expects that the report of the Conciliation Commission on the problem of Jerusalem will be presented to the General Assembly of the United Nations.

The Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Bevin)

The Conciliation Commission was instructed by the Assembly Resolution of 11th December last to present its proposals for Jerusalem to the Fourth Regular Session of the General Assembly of the United Nations, which is expected to meet in September next.

Sir P. Hannon

While the whole Christian world will be grateful to my right hon. Friend for what he is doing in this matter, will he urge the Commission to take every step to see that the Holy Places are safeguarded in the future?

Mr. Bevin

That has been our policy.

Mr. Wilson Harris

Have the United Nations any means of imposing their will in regard to Jerusalem if either of the parties declines to accede to the recommendations of the Commission?

Mr. Bevin

They have the means, but up to now they have not shown any desire to exercise them.