Commerce in the annual Christmas trading was moved into the sphere of Aryan business today when an order was published prohibiting Jews from selling evergreen trees, crosses, angels, stars and other religious symbols. Nor are Jewish merchants to be permitted to use any of these symbols on wrapping boxes or paper. The order was issued by the All-German Chamber of Commerce.
There is a sharp distinction between the treatment of Jews employed by the State and those engaged in commerce, according to a statement issued today by the Director of the Ministry of Interior and Commerce Seels, in behalf of the department.
Director Seels pointed out that the Aryan clause is intended to be applied as widely as possible against Jews in the employ of the State. Those who wish to oust Jews from commerce are going too far, he said.
Herr Seels said that foreign nations are beginning to realize that the anti-Jewish German activities are justifiable, and are not prompted by hatred of the Jew but by “state necessity.”
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