A difference of opinion within British Jewry as to how far the Synagogue should go in agitating for political changes in Palestine was revealed today with the disclosure that all congregations affiliated with the United Synagogue have received a telegram signed by Sir Robert Waley-Cohen, president and Frank Samuel, vice-president, urging that rabbis be warned of the “vital importance” of refraining from introducing polities into the religious services.
Despite the telegram, many rabbis yesterday and today delivered strong sermons urging the opening of Palestine to Jews from Europe. Many of the rabbis charged that the action of the leaders of the United Synagogue was similar to the anti-Zionist activities of some sections of the British community in 1917.
The Board of Deputies of British Jews today adopted a resolution urging the Government to immediately abrogate the White Paper, and admit 100,000 Jews, without delay The resolution, which was adopted without dissent, said that the Board realized the fact that the Palestine problem affected the position of Britain in the Middle East, but pointed out that Palestine was the only place which would welcome all Jewish survivors.
Declaring that the reports of possible viclence in Palestine were mainly Arab propaganda, Prof. Selig Brodetsky, president of the Board, pointed out, however, that “the Jews will not always accept what others try to impose upon them.” He revealed that the Board had asked for an appointment with Prime Minister Attlee to disouss the Palestine problem but, so far, had received only a formal acknowledgement of its request
The Archive of the Jewish Telegraphic Agency includes articles published from 1923 to 2008. Archive stories reflect the journalistic standards and practices of the time they were published.
