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Likens Arab-jewish Quarrel to Hindu-moslem Feud; Says M. P.’s Should Not Participate

April 4, 1930
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The quarrel between Jews and Arabs in Palestine is compared to the long-existing conflict between Moslems and Hindus in India, by Lord Winterton, former Secretary for India, writing in the “London Times” as “one who served with the Arab forces during a portion of the War and having some knowledge of Palestine.”

“Both feuds,” says Lord Winterton, “are rooted as deeply in mutual jealousy, fear and ambition as in religious and racial difference.” Speaking as one who is experienced in Indian administration, Lord Winterton says he knows “that the results in feeling would be worse, if it were not for the fact that the British are in India and have generally always refused to favor either side. Yet in the case of Palestine, distinguished politicians and others have not hesitated to write articles, form committees, and vigorously exert themselves on behalf of one or the other contestants.

“This not only makes the task of the local administration harder, but leads both Arabs and Jews to think they can gain advantages by bringing pressure to bear through their supporters in both houses on the government in Great Britain. Moreover,” continues Lord Winterton, “when an allowance is made for the fine cultural traditions of both races and the high ideals held by their responsible leaders, the Arab-Jewish quarrel in Palestine is a squalid one, based on the worst tradition of the Eastern bazaar. It is surely beneath the dignity of British legislators to participate in such a struggle as active participants.”

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