HC Deb 01 July 1948 vol 452 cc241-2W
Mr. Piratin

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies why, in view of the announcement by the Government of Kenya, on 14th May, to the 254 Jewish political internees at Gilgil, Kenya, that they would leave Kenya en route for Palestine within one month, these Jews are still detained in Gilgil, having been informed that the announcement of 14th May will not be implemented, in view of the truce in Palestine.

Mr. Rees-Williams

Arrangements made for these suspected terrorists to leave Kenya within one month of the end of the Mandate in accordance with an undertaking which the Government of Kenya had been authorised by His Majesty's Government to give were suspended in view of the importance of not jeopardising the negotiations for a cease fire in Palestine. Count Bernadotte was asked to give his views on their repatriation and has now replied that he does not consider the cease fire terms affect the question as these men are not immigrants but are normal residents in Palestine. Arrangements for their return to Palestine as rapidly as possible will therefore now be made.