Search JTA's historical archive dating back to 1923

Says No Special Privileges for Jewish Settlers over Natives Solution for Palestine Problem

January 6, 1930
See Original Daily Bulletin From This Date
Advertisement

That Jewish immigrants to Palestine should get no special privileges over the native inhabitants, is the suggestion made by the local Arabic newspaper, “Al Mokattam,” for solving the Palestine problem. In an article entitled, “Without Prejudice,” the newspaper says:

“If the British government really wants to solve the problem which Palestine presents to the administration, then the way to do it is two-fold. First, there should be permission for Jews to enter Palestine as they used to do, and in the same way as people enter other countries. They must come in according to regulations made by the Department of Immigration, regulations which are to be especially drawn up for the purpose. The government will give these people protection, but will give the new immigrants no special privilege over the native inhabitants of the country. They will be treated as immigrants into other countries are treated, all over the face of God’s earth.

“Should they become the majority of those in the country during the course of years, then of course they will hold the reins of government in their hands. If, as we sincerely hope, they will remain a minority, then they will be treated as a minority, having merely the rights of a minority.

“In addition it would be sound policy for Great Britain, while retaining the Mandate, to give local government to the people of Palestine, reserving to itself the right of keeping a watch on such a government to see that it carries out the terms of the Mandate.

“If these two suggestions were put into practice, Palestine would have peace. The National Home would depend on time and on immigration and would not depend on artificial props which could be swept away with the first gusts of an unfriendly wind.”

Recommended from JTA

Advertisement