Colonial Secretary William Ormsby-Gore told the House of Commons today that the British Government is reluctant to invoke martial law to stamp out terrorism in the Holy Land because it would mean the end of civil government.
Mr. Ormsby-Gore voiced confidence that the Arab Supreme Committee had no connection with the recent murders of Jews in Palestine, declaring they were committed “admittedly by small gangs.”
He revealed that he had discussed with Palestine High Commissioner Sir Arthur Wauchope, who is returning to Jerusalem by air, further measures “to counteract violence.”
Declaring Sir Arthur would confer with his advisers upon his arrival Friday, the Colonial Secretary said:
“I deeply deplore the assassinations but it is extremely difficult to ensure security since tension is acute following last year’s lawlessness.”
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