An appeal for unity in Jewish life here and abroad was made today by Sir Robert Waley-Cohen, prominent communal leader, reporting to the council of the Anglo-Jewish Association on his recent visit to the United States, during which he met with Jewish representatives at San Francisco. He said that the main impression that he received after contacting various American Jewish organizations, was one of “serious divergencies.”
Regarding Jewish activities at San Francisco, Sir Robert said that while Jews were only consultants there, the American Jewish Committee, the American Jewish Conference and other groups did good work in connection with the charter on human rights. He also praised the Committee’s fight on anti-Semitism in the U.S. The discussion on mandates, he asserted, was confused, but it was indicated that the final draft of the proposals covering mandates would leave the Palestine mandate intact and not prejudice Jewish rights.
Where Jewish organizations were divided on issues, their counsel was rejected or ignored, Sir Robert said, but “their united voice was received with open ears and had an effect.” It would be a great tragedy, he continued, if Jewish organizations failed to find a common ground for united work. Admitting that it was difficult to come to an agreement on the question of Palestine, the Anglo-Jewish Association leader said that it is possible for all to agree on the great value of Jewish achievements in Palestine if the Balfour Declaration is carried out. “A united Jewry can convince the world that the hands of the clock cannot be turned backwards in Palestine.” Sir Robert stated.
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