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News Brief

September 8, 1929
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An official communique of the Zionist Organization was issued following the meeting of the Zionist General Council here today.

The communique mentions S. Kaplansky as saying the places most seriously affected were where there are mixed communities, in Jerusalem, Jaffa, Hebron, Safed, and a large number of small, isolated settlements. The Valley of Jezreel had not been attacked.

The Jews of Palestine were convinced that a large measure of the responsibility for the outbreak rested with the Supreme Moslem Council and the Arab Executive. The Palestine government is also charged with lack of foresight, and inefficiency.

Mr. Sacher said the Executive in Palestine had foreseen the danger and had taken all measures in their power to avert it. The Executive in London made energetic repeated representations to the government, with the view of insuring adequate protection and the prompt restoration of order, punishment of the guilty, relief of the sufferers, compensation for loss of life and property and reaffirmation of the policy of the Mandate.

Considerable help was rendered by the Marquis of Reading and Lord Melchett, who cooperated with the Executive in making representations to the government.

Assurances have been received from the Colonial Office that prompt steps will be taken to restore order and investigate the causes of the outbreaks. A Commission of Inquiry would proceed to Palestine very shortly.

Lord Melchett said he is confident the damage will be made good by the British or Palestine government. There was a general feeling of shame prevalent at the breakdown of the Palestine administration. The Commission of Inquiry would doubtless investigate the causes that had brought this about. He considered it essential to be represented at the hearing of the Commission of Inquiry by counsel, and that their witnesses be given a hearing. Above all, it is necessary to increase immigration to Palestine, he stated, adding that he intends to visit the country again at an early opportunity to study the situation.

Mr. Sacher tendered Lord Melchett the thanks of the meeting for the political and financial help he rendered in the present crisis, the communique declares.

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