Palestine

Cost Of Living Allowances

41.

Mr. W. J. Brown 
asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether the McLeod Report on cost-of-living allowances in Palestine has been published; what amendments to the existing bonus system it recommended; whether these have been put into effect; what are the basis and amounts of such allowances now payable and whether he is satisfied that the present bonuses are reasonable, having regard to the greatly increased cost of living and the impossibility of obtaining many necessary commodities save through the black market.

Mr. George Hall
The answer to the first part of the Question is in the negative. Mr. Macleod's recommendations have been put into effect and, with the permission of my hon. Friend I will send him a copy of a circular issued by the Palestine Government giving details. While I  realise that living conditions in Palestine have in many respects been difficult during the war, I consider that the allowances are not unreasonable. If, after reading the circular, my hon. Friend would like to discuss the matter, I shall be very ready to see him.

Mr. E. P. Smith
Has any improvement taken place in conditions of the Palestine police?

Mr. Hall
That is another question.

Great Britain And United States Conversations

51.

Captain Marples 
asked the Prime Minister whether he can now give the House any information about his conversations on Palestine with President Truman.

The Prime Minister (Mr. Attlee)
I have no statement to make at present.

Captain Marples
In view of the recent statement by President Truman regarding these conversations is it not time that this House was informed of them?

The Prime Minister
I think that in due course a statement will be made.