Sending of an experts commission to the Negeb desert in southern Palestine to determine the possibilities of developing the region for unrestricted Jewish immigration and settlement was discussed over the week-end here by Colonial Secretary Malcolm MacDonald and a delegation of Zionist leaders.
The delegation, it was learned today, suggested that the commission be equipped to conduct a survey on the broadest possible scale, including water soundings, so that it might be determined once and for all whether the Negeb is fit for settlement. Cost of such a project was estimated at $50,000. Mr. MacDonald, it was understood, was not opposed to the suggestion but hesitated to decide on it before the arrival of Palestine High Commissioner Sir Harold Alfred MacMichael, who is expected in London very soon.
It was reliably learned, at the same time, that the Colonial Secretary is skeptical as to the possibilities of the Negeb in the light of the Government’s experiences in that desert region. Of 19 water soundings by Government only one was productive. Nevertheless not only Zionist leaders but other circles interested in refugee settlement believe that a definitive and fundamental survey as suggested by the Zionist delegation is necessary.
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