A solution of Israel’s 51-day Cabinet crisis seemed certain today as the three major parties in the coalition issued statements indicating that they were prepared to make compromises in an effort to put an end to the protracted negotiations.
A joint statement, signed by Acting Premier Moshe Sharett and General Zionist leader Dr. Peretz Bernstein, revealed that the Mapai leader had approached the centrists and suggested that the post of Deputy Minister of Education, in dispute between the General Zionists and the religious parties, be assigned by the new Cabinet after its constitution. The General Zionists agreed. The statement invited any parties willing to enter the coalition on this basis to do so immediately.
Another joint statement, signed by Mr. Sharett and Moshe Shapiro, leader of the Mizrachi Laborites, indicated that a compromise agreement has also been reached between the Mapai and the Orthodox Labor group. The full text of the agreement will be made public after it is approved by the central committees of both parties tomorrow. A spokesman for the Mizrachi Laborites said: “I have no doubt that our party will accept the proposal.”
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