Reorganization of Zionist Organization in Italy Discussed at Rome Meeting

The first Zionist conference to be held in Italy since Mussolini introduced anti-Jewish laws in 1938 today discussed the various problems involved in reorganizing the Zionist Federation of Italy and resuming normal Zionist activities here. The conference, which was formally opened Friday night in the Rome synagogue, is being attended by 50 delegates, who represent Zionists of Italian, German, Polish and Yugoslav nationality.

One of the immediate problems which must be settled is selection of the 900 persons to whom the Palestine immigration certificates allotted to Italy will be assigned. It is expected that Jews with agricultural training and those with families in Palestine will be given preference. No final decision will be made, however, until the arrival of a representative of the Jewish Agency.

(It was announced in Jerusalem today that Dr. Umberto Nachon, former president of the Zionist organization in Milan, is leaving for Italy this week as the representative of the Jewish Agency. He will supervise emigration of refugees and will deal with other relief problems. His mission has been approved by British authorities.)

Many Palestinian soldiers stationed in Italy are attending the conference as observers. Greetings have been received from Chief Rabbi. Israel Zolli, Chaplain Jacob Hochman of the American army, Chaplain Berman of the British forces and Reuben Resnik, representative here of the Joint Distribution Committee, which is financing, among other activities, the “hachschara” program, which provides training for youths planning to emigrate to Palestine.