asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies on what date Mr. Novomeysky made his first application and presented his first scheme on the Dead Sea and to what official body?

Mr. Novomeysky's first formal application was made to the High Commissioner in July, 1921.

I did not catch the answer. Was it 1921?

Yes.

May I ask whether the delay in bringing this matter to a conclusion is in any sense due to the fault of the persons to whom the concessions have been granted?

No, I do not think so.

Is it not due to the persistent questioning of the hon. and gallant Member for Chelmsford (Colonel Howard-Bury)?

In view of what has been said, may I ask whether it is not a British group?

It is a group headed by Major Tulloch and M. Novomeysky. Major Tulloch is a British subject, and M. Novomeysky a Palestinian subject.

Has not Major Tulloch signed a power of attorney to M. Novomeysky, and handed over complete control of the concession?

I have not heard of that.