Choice of an Arab for Mayor of Jerusalem, which has a majority of Jews, was the topic in the House of Commons by Sir Philip Cunliffe-Lister, British Colonial Secretary.
Questioned by Colonel Josiah Wedgwood, independent, as to why Dr. Khaldi was appointed when a majority of the population is Jewish, Sir Philip pointed out that the law gives the High Commissioner “unfettered discretion to appoint any elected councillor. I have complete confidence in the judgment of Sir Arthur Wauchope.” the Colonial Secretary added.
According to the electoral system in vogue in Palestine, the Mayor is appointed by the High Commissioner from the elected municipal councillors. Dr. Khaldi defeated former Mayor Ragheb Bey Nashashibi in his own ward. Six Jewish councillors were elected in the last municipal election.
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The Archive of the Jewish Telegraphic Agency includes articles published from 1923 to 2008. Archive stories reflect the journalistic standards and practices of the time they were published.
