Senate Numerus Clausus Debate Reveals Strong Opposition to Jew-hatred

(Jewish Telegraphic Agency)

The debate which preceded the adoption by the Senate of the numerus clausus modification bill, passed by parliament two weeks ago, disclosed strong indications that the leading spirits of Hungary are in outspoken opposition to the anti-Semitic policy of the Bethlen Government. The leaders of thought demanded the complete equality of Jews and non-Jews before the law.

Bishop Balthazar, who spoke against the bill, declared that the numerus clausus signifies the “codification of hatred.”

“I must declare before public opinion abroad,” the Bishop said, “that there still are men in this country who are willing to barter with liberalism and democracy. Despite the internal presure, I decline to vote for the numerus clausus bill because it cannot be reconciled with the elementary principles of human rights,” he declared.

Baron von Berzeviscy, president of the Hungarian Academy of Science, quoted figures to show that the assertion that the colleges and laboratortes are overcrowded is untrue. Toc the contrary, there is sufficient room for the Jewish students. The numerous clauses measure will enable only such Jewish students who -will have “pull” to pursue an academic course, he stated.

Stefan Basseterre declared that he will remain true to his liberalism, notwithstanding the threatening letters he received. The progress that Hungary made in the past was due only to the principle of equality, he declared.

Szily director of the Technical Institute, praised the contribution of Jews to mankind’s civilization. “Mankind owes the Jews a great debt of gratitude,” he declared. “For the renaissance of Hungary, it is urgently necessary to secure the cooperation of the Jews,” the speaker declared, although he stated that he will vote for the numerus clausus measure. This measure he stated, was justified because Jewish students have taken a large part in the revolution.

Count Teleki urged the adoption of the numerus clauses bill and demanded that the numerus clauses principle also be extended to the economic life of the country. The Christian youth, he asserted, has no opportunities in busses. “I am surprised to see Jews feeling offended -when they are described as a race,” he said. “Notwithstanding their marked ability of assimilation, their mode of thinking and their exclusiveness clearly show that they are a separate race.”