§ 22. Mr. Shortasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether, in view of the speech of Mr. Abba Eban in the United Nations General Assembly's Political Committee on 17th November, Her Majesty's Government will now take the initiative in seeking a solution to the Middle East refugee problem.
Commander NobleThis is a problem principally for the United Nations, of which the Relief and Works Agency is a subsidiary body. On 10th December the Special Political Committee of the General Assembly adopted a resolution urging the need for more funds for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency; progress in rehabilitation projects and consultations regarding repatriation and compensation of refugees. Her Majesty's Government co-sponsored this resolution.
§ Mr. ShortCannot the Minister of State go further? Does he not agree that Mr. Abba Eban's speech marks some progress, in that the Israeli Government are now willing to pay compensation before a settlement? Will not the Government take some initiative in this matter?
Commander NobleIt is not a question of initiative by Her Majesty's Government, but no doubt the appropriate authorities of the United Nations will take notice of the points raised by the hon. Member.