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Israel Knesset Resumes Sessions in Jerusalem; Sharett to Report to Cabinet Today

December 27, 1949
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The Israel Knesset, after a year of meetings in Tel Aviv, resumed its sessions here today in preparation for a general debate on foreign policy, especially in connection with the Jerusalem issue.

Foreign Minister Moshe Sharett, who arrived at Lydda Airport today after participating in the United Nations meetings at Lake Success, will report to the Israel Cabinet tomorrow on the U.N. deliberations on the Jerusalem issue. Mr. Sharett will report on Wednesday to the foreign affairs committee of the Knesset.

Leaders of the coalition indicated, meanwhile, that it was useless to launch a discussion of foreign policy until next week. On the other hand, leaders of the Herut and General Zionist parties hinted that they might press for an immediate discussion on foreign policy and on Jerusalem, while separate motions of censure have also been prepared by the Herut and General Zionist delegates. (According to one report, Herut leader Menachem Beigin was quoted as announcing he would formally demand the resignation of Mr. Sharett.)

The General Zionists have also drafted a resolution calling on the Knesset to adopt article one of the proposed Israel constitution, proclaiming Jerusalem the capital of the Jewish state. The General Zionists contend that the transfer of government offices from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem would be strengthened by such an act.

The financial and foreign affairs committees of the Knesset started work early this morning. A subcommittee started debate regarding technical arrangements for accommodating the Knesset in Jerusalem since present facilities are inadequate. It is estimated that construction of a permanent parliament building would take at least two years.

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