Search JTA's historical archive dating back to 1923

Mrs. Mckay Runs into Trouble in Efforts to Set Up Arab Propaganda-cultural Center

November 18, 1969
See Original Daily Bulletin From This Date
Advertisement

Mrs. Margaret McKay, the pro-Arab Labor MP, has run into legal and financial difficulties in her efforts to establish an Arab propaganda and cultural center in London. Mrs. McKay, who claims honorary membership in El Fatah, the Palestinian guerrilla organization, has taken a 17-year lease on two five story buildings in the Chelsea district. She paid $110,000 which was donated for the purpose by Sheikh Zaid, of Abu Dahbi, an oil-rich Arab principality on the Persian Gulf. But the Sheikh’s contribution, which totals $120,000, covers only the decoration of the premises with no funds left over to run the center. The owners of the two buildings moreover have objected to the use contemplated for them.

The land belongs to the estate of the Earl of Cadogan and the leases, originally granted in 1887, allow the premises to be used only as a domestic residence or a girls’ finishing school. The owners now insist on compliance with the original terms of the lease.

Recommended from JTA

Advertisement