§ 60. Mr. Pickthornasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what recent communications he has had with the United Nations about Palestine Arab refugees.
§ Mr. Ernest DaviesThe Secretary General of the United Nations has been in communication with His Majesty's Government regarding our financial contribution to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine refugees, and the appointment of its director. The United Nations Palestine Conciliation Commission has also consulted the Foreign Office informally regarding the release of Arab balances blocked in Israel.
§ Mr. PickthornCan we be told how many Palestine Arab refugees His Majesty's Government think there still are?
§ Mr. EdenCould we not be told? Could not the hon. Gentleman tell us how this matter now stands? This is a matter in which the whole House takes an interest.
§ Mr. DaviesWe believe that the figure which I have been asked to give is round about three-quarters of a million.
§ Mr. David RentonBearing in mind that these people have been deprived of the opportunity of living in their country, will the hon. Gentleman say where they will get an economic livelihood in future?
§ Mr. DaviesThat is precisely what the United Nations is considering at the present time. It is endeavouring to bring about the resettlement of the Arab refugees through a number of works projects which are being worked out in the Middle East.
§ Mr. DaviesNo, Sir. It has not reached the point where there has been actual resettlement.