Aharon Abu-Hatzeira’s resignation as Minister of Labor, Welfare and Absorption, which he submitted in writing last Friday to Premier Menachem Begin, formally took effect today. Begin reported Abu-Hatzeira’s decision to the Cabinet and the ministers approved the appointment at Aharon Uzan, the number two man in the three-member Tami Knesset faction which Abu-Hatzeira heads. The appointment must still have the approval of the Knesset, which is expected to do so this week.
Uzan was present at the Cabinet meeting today and said he hoped his service as minister would be brief. He meant that hopefully Abu-Hatzeira would be acquitted on appeal of the larceny, fraud and breach of trust convictions that prompted his resignation as minister. He will, however, hold on to his Knesset seat pending a ruling by the Supreme Court. Abu-Hatzeira received a suspended sentence of 30 months on the three counts and fined 3,500 Shekels (about $170) on April 23.
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