U.S. to Guard Rights in Palestine, but Cannot Prevent Mandate Change

The State Department, replying to Congressmen’s inquiries on the American attitude toward Britain’s new Palestine policy, has reaffirmed the position that the United States cannot prevent changes in the Holy Land mandate but will take all necessary measures for protection of American rights and interests. A letter sent by the Department over the weekend to 150 members of Congress referred to the statement made by Secretary Cordell Hull last Oct. 14 as representing the administration’s present attitude and also reiterated American interest in the Jewish homeland.

The Oct 14 statement declared that the Government intends to present to Britain its views regarding any changes in the mandate affecting American rights, and while the United States cannot prevent modification of the mandate, it can refuse to recognize the application of such changes unless assented to by Washington. It also emphasized American interest in the Jewish homeland in Palestine, ”a project in which American intellect and capital have played a leading role,” and cited the expressions of sympathy with the homeland made by all presidents since Woodrow Wilson and by Congress. The statement was made after a Jewish delegation had asked intercession with Britain to prevent a radical revision in Palestine policy which would harm the Jewish homeland.