The British Cabinet is reported today to have discussed the anti-Semitic non-fraternization order issued by Lieut. Gen. Sir Evelyn Barker, British commander in Palestine. It is likely that the order will be discussed in Parliament during the Palestine debate tomorrow.
It is reported that a copy of the order has been telegraphed by the Jewish Agency in Palestine to members of the Labor Party in London, including Michael Foot and Richard Crossman, former member of the Anglo-American Committee of Inquiry on Palestine.
The Daily Herald, organ of the Labor Party, bitterly assailed the Barker statement. The paper said that it is “almost incredible that words so reckless could have been issued by a responsible commander. If he wrote it,” the newspaper continued, “Barker has demonstrated overwhelmingly his unfitness for his command.”
The Communist Daily Worker today declared that Colonial Office officials hold anxious consultations after the publication of Barker’s anti-Semitic letter. It adds that Labor Party M.P.’s are expressing indignation at the document.
Last night Dr. Chaim Weizmann addressed a group of Members of Parliament representing all parties and explained the Jewish point of view of the proposed “federalization” plan for Palestine in preparation for tomorrow’s debate.
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