A call for civil disobedience against any contact by the Israel Government with Germany was voiced here today by Menahem Beigin, Herut leader, speaking at a mass meeting. He stressed that he and his party were not prepared to organize an underground movement but will mobilize public opinion on this issue in a democratic fashion.
The right-wing leader appealed to all opposition parties to petition Parliament to hold a national referendum on the question of conducting direct negotiations with Germany for reparations claims. He also suggested that the Knesset’s decision to bar him from Parliamentary sessions until after the Passover recess for his part in the anti-Parliament riots of several weeks ago and the charges against him be put before the Supreme Court because the Knesset has no authority to “interfere” with his membership in that body.
A meeting of the Herut Party’s central council earlier this week-end pledged solidarity with Mr. Beigin even to the extent of every Herut deputy walking out of Parliament if Mr. Beigin is barred. The council also took action on the first stages of a national and international propaganda campaign against the Israel Government’s holding direct talks with Germany.
Most persons arrested during the Herut demonstrations outside Israel’s parliament last week have been released, it was reported today. Only eight of those placed under arrest are still in custody and are waiting to be tried.
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