§ LORD VANSITTARTMy Lords. I beg to ask the next Question which stands in my name on the Order Paper.
§ [The Question was as follows:
§ To ask His Majesty's Government whether they have any statement to make on the measures taken or to be taken for the protection of British lives in the Persian oilfields.]
499§ LORD HENDERSONMy Lords, His Majesty's Government are naturally concerned at the situation in the South Persian oilfields, and the Persian Government have been informed that we must hold them responsible for all injuries and loss that may be sustained by British nationals and interests. The most recent reports indicate that steps are being taken by the Persian security forces to deal with the trouble and that, in consequence, the situation is more satisfactory. I can assure the noble Lord that the question is under constant consideration, and I do not feel I should say any more at this stage.
§ LORD VANSITTARTMy Lords, while thanking the noble Lord for his reply, I would point out that some British subjects have already been killed in Southern Persia, and that the remainder are living in circumstances of considerable apprehension.