The British War Secretary, Capt. David Margesson, today announced in Commons that not only is it impossible at the present time to form a Jewish Army, but even the formation of a Jewish Division would present very serious practical difficulties.
The War Secretary made this announcement in reply to a question asked by Geoffrey Mander, pro-Zionist M.P. Margesion added that the question of separate badges for Palestine Jews fighting with the British forces is not timely now.
A demand that the British Government issue a declaration regarding the future of Palestine, India and Ethiopia after the war, was voiced today in Commons by W. Leach, Laborite M.P. He emphasized that some public uneasiness is felt with regard to the present position of Palestine, India and Ethiopia. It would, therefore, be advisable for the British Cabinet to announce its attitude in “a far-reaching democratic declaration,” he said.
Prime Minister Churchill, replying to this demand, referred to a statement which he made on September 9, saying that he has nothing to add. The September 9 statement, however, carried no mention of Palestine.
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