Colonial Secretary William Ormsby-Gore rose to the defense of Palestine police in the House of Commons today, denying charges of impotence and laxity in the face of continuing Arab terrorism.
Asked whether the Arab section of the police force was in a state of complete collapse as result of the terrorism in Haifa which was climaxed last week with the assassination of Halim Basta, senior Arab police officer, whose life had been twice previously threatened.
“Isn’t gangsterism too strong for the police?” Col. Wedgwood demanded.
“Not at all, ” the Colonial Secretary replied, “Gangsterism is widespread, but this is a difficult country. The police are under terrible pressure. They have been most loyal, gallant and energetic. Both the British and Jewish police force have been considerably strengthened during the past year. I am satisfied the Palestine administration has taken active measures to deal with a difficult situation.”
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