Search JTA's historical archive dating back to 1923

Board of Deputies Reviews Fascist Activities Among Baltic Dp’s Living in England

November 22, 1949
See Original Daily Bulletin From This Date
Advertisement

British fascists are attempting to recruit members into their movement from among Polish, Baltic and other DP’s, large numbers of whom are now working in Britain’s industrial centers, it was revealed here yesterday at a meeting of the Board of Deputies of British Jews.

It was reported that Geoffrey Hamm, one of Sir Oswald Mosley’s deputies, is concentrating his efforts in the Manchester area, and that the Manchester Jewish Council is watching the situation there. The Board also heard that the question of anti-Semitism among policemen in London’s East End and North section, predominantly Jewish areas, will be debated in Parliament this week. The Board was urged to bring to the Home Secretary evidence that anti-Semitism, due to the employment of former Palestine policemen, exists in police units assigned to these areas.

In reference to the split within the ranks of the Board as a result of a boycott by liberal congregations, the Board heard that a subcommittee has been established to try to bring about a compromise. The subcommittee is scheduled to meet with the Chief Rabbi and the Rabbinical Court over the issue of the appointment of marriage recorders in liberal synagogues, which caused the original split.

Another report to the Board told of negotiations among Jewish groups to form a “Jewish Trust Corporation” to administer heirless Jewish property in the British zone of Germany. It was decided to set up the corporation under British law, rather than German, and to give the German communities adequate representation in the management of the corporation.

Recommended from JTA

Advertisement