§ 58. Sir R. Glynasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what was the total cost of the British mandate for Palestine since it began; and how long will it be before the sums due to this country in repayment for certain expenditure are paid.
§ Mr. MayhewHis Majesty's Government made payments of approximately £25 million to the Palestine Government during the 26 years of the mandate. These payments comprised £24,751,499 in respect of Grants-in-Aid and about £170,000 from the Colonial Development Fund. These payments were made in the course of administration in Palestine and in accordance with the policy of His Majesty's Government. It is not considered that any claim can be made for their repayment.
In addition, His Majesty's Government have so far made available about £15 million for the expenses incurred in the winding-up of the mandate. Negotiations are now in progress at Tel Aviv concerning this and other financial questions arising out of the termination of that mandate. It is not yet possible to say when these negotiations will be completed.