§ Mr. MILLSasked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he is aware that on 7th February, 1922, a repetition of the Shandaweel incident took place at Alshouhada, district of Shebin-el-Kom, when the police, acting upon the instructions of those in authority, fired 130 rounds on the inhabitants, killing one and wounding four; that this took place in spite of the fact that the inhabitants had chosen Tuesday as their market day in order not to clash with the British company's market day, which was Monday: and that the action of the police was taken to compel them to return to the British company's markets which they were boycotting; what steps His Majesty's Government proposes to take in regard to this incident; and whether an undertaking will be given that the inhabitants, so long as they act in a peaceful manner, shall remain unmolested?
Mr. HARMSWORTHThe market at Sirsina, a village adjoining Esh-Shuhada, was boycotted on 6th February. The next day, when people collected in the fields to hold a separate market, the police and watchmen intervened. In a riot which ensued one person was killed and four wounded. The Egyptian sub-governor proceeded to the spot, and when the last report from the Acting High Commissioner was received, an inquiry was being held, but the facts had not then been established. It is not for His Majesty's Government to take any action in the matter, nor to give an undertaking of the nature suggested by the hon. Member?