Jewish refugees in England were lauded here last night by the Minister for Civil Aviation, Lord Pakenham, for work they contributed to atomic energy, penicillin and radar discoveries, as well as for the commercial and industrial skill which some have displayed.
Denouncing anti-Semitism as an “ultimate offense against decency,” the Minister asserted that the British Government intends “to make sure that all liberties should continue and be enjoyed by the British Jew as much as by his fellow citizen of Gentile persuasions.” He spoke at the 75th anniversary dinner of the Anglo-Jewish Association held at the Governor House.
The British people, he said, are conscious of their responsibility toward the Jewish people and consider it important that all rights and full and equal citizenship should be extended to Jews. At the same time they are interested in seeing to it that there is no separation of thought between Jews and non-Jews. Nor must there be any special protection for the Jewish community, although it is understandable that many Jews feel insecure owing to their past experiences, he pointed out.
SAYS JEWS HAVE DONE “A GREAT DEAL” FOR HUMAN CIVILIZATION
Paying high tribute to Jews who “have done and always will do a great deal for human civilization,” Lord Pakenham said: “Every Christian must stand in deep reverence before the Jewish cultural and spiritual achievements.” He emphasized that the government greatly appreciates the work of the Anglo-Jewish Association and the “spirit of moderation and restraint” in which the Association conducts its work.
The British Minister welcomed the presence at the dinner of Dr. Mordecai Eliash, Israeli Minister to London. “I am glad to see the affairs of the state of Israel in excellent hands,” he declared. “We all must face the fact that during the last few years events have strained relations. Our policy has always been to secure stability in the Middle East. As far as Israel contributes to this aim, its efforts will be watched with great sympathy.”
Responding, Dr. Eliash said: “The long and happy years of relations between Israel and Britain will not be forgotten. Many of us appreciate the apprenticeship under British tutelage. We realize that healing takes longer than inflicting wounds. We hope that the process of healing will proceed now with greater speed.”
Hundreds of prominent personalities were among the guests who attended the dinner. Principal speakers included Chief Rabbi Israel Brodie, Leonard Stein, Leonard Montefiore, Lord Justice Cohen, Lord Nathan and others.
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.
