HC Deb 29 November 1916 vol 88 cc372-3W
Mr. RAWLINSON

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether it is proposed to merge the existing Consular Courts and certain other Courts in Egypt into a new Court; whether the existing rights of Englishmen to be tried by English criminal law will be preserved in the new Court; and whether the House of Commons will be consulted before any change is made in the Egyptian Courts affecting the rights of British subjects?

Lord R. CECIL

His Majesty's Government are considering, in conjunction with the Egyptian Government, the establishment of Courts of General Jurisdiction in Egypt to replace the existing judicial system, which has been found to be cut of harmony with the social and economic development of the country. Proposals to this effect have been submitted to them in a draft form, and will require careful and lengthy consideration before a final decision can be arrived at. My hon. and learned Friend may, however, rest assured that the rights of British subjects in Egypt will be carefully safeguarded.