British Jews Urge Public Discussions on Situation of Jews in Russia

Declaring that he has found “great anxiety” over the situation of the Jews in the Soviet Union, Maurice Edelman, president of the Anglo-Jewish Association, told a meeting of the AJA’s Council here that “a public discussion of the condition of the Jews in Russia is important.” “A public denunciation of anti-Semitism, wherever it is established, whether in the Soviet Union or elsewhere, is vital,” he stated.

He denounced roundly the publication of the anti-Semitic book, “Judaism Without Embellishment,” by the Ukrainian Academy of Science, at Kiev, as well as “other conspicuous manifestations of anti-Semitism in the Soviet Union.” Noting that world public opinion had forced the withdrawal of the book from circulation, he said that book’s appearance had nevertheless shown anti-Semitism “as hideous as anything that had ever appeared in Der Stuermer; and the fact that it could appear in the Soviet Union where, theoretically, it is outlawed.”

He said that, after discussing the matter with “a considerable number of eminent and well-informed men, who are concerned with this problem, I am convinced that a public discussion and denunciation are vital.” He pointed out that, as in the case of Nazi Germany, it is important that a manifestation of “the disease of racialism should be identified and condemned.” He asserted that the AJA would be glad to cooperate with anyone or any organization, objectively and with good will, in the examination of this subject.

On another phase of international relations, Mr. Edelman emphasized his organization’s friendship for Israel and “Its readiness to contribute to Israel’s security and the upbuilding of the Jewish State.”