§ 95. Mr. Orbachasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is aware of the complaints that the headquarters of the Women's International Zionist Organisation in Palestine was entered on 29th June by British troops by means of dynamiting the entrance; that the interior of the premises was badly damaged and that money and goods were removed; whether these actions were carried out under the orders of the commanding officer; and if he will hold an inquiry into these complaints.
§ Mr. George HallThe main door of the headquarters of the Women's International Zionist Organisation in Palestine was found locked and barricaded when troops sought an entry on 29th June. No watchman was on duty. It was necessary to blow open the door and a certain amount of damage resulted, but no more than was absolutely necessary to effect entry. The High Commissioner has reported that in the course of the searches at Tel Aviv, of which this was one, it was necessary to remove the contents of certain safes, but that in every case an inventory was made under the supervision of an officer. Precautions were taken to 121W ensure that there was no unauthorised removal of valuables. I do not consider that a special inquiry into this incident is required.