The House of Representatives today approved overwhelmingly an appropriation bill releasing in Israel currency the sum equivalent to$3, 516, 667 for distribution to many Israeli organizations and institutions. The money is an accumulation of Israeli pounds paid in to the United States embassy in Tel Aviv for the purchase of books, magazines and other cultural and educational materials from the United States for the past five years.
Under the leadership of Rep. John Rooney (Dem. Brooklyn) the House beat down two attempts to drop the item from an appropriations bill by votes of 111-82 and 145-75, Congressman Rooney heads the Appropriations Subcommittee which looked into the proposal. Mr, Rooney was prepared for opposition from certain House members and made a strong case for the item. He was vigorously supported by the House Majority Leader, John W, McCormack of Boston, who told the House that the proposal would enable the U.S. Government to fulfill a commitment made by the Department of State early last year.
The Majority Leader told the House the funds would be used for the benefits of orphans and other underprivileged Israelis, for the establishment of a law library and many other purposes that would strengthen Israel as a stronghold of democracy. A small staff of three U.S. employees in Jerusalem will supervise the program for the American embassy. These three will work out detailed terms of the grants and assure proper use of the funds. For this administrative task, $8, 333 is appropriated.
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