Western Aliyah Held ‘nigh Impossible’ Because of Israel’s Economic Problems

A member of the Jewish Agency Executive declared here last night that it was “well nigh impossible” to expect Jews from Western countries to immigrate to Israel because of the present economic conditions in Israel.” Yosef Klarman, addressing the European conference of Herut. said that the main problem faced by Jewish immigrants from the West was finding gainful and useful employment when they arrive. He said the Government of Israel “must create conditions for the absorption of immigrants from affluent countries if we want them to come.”

Mr. Klarman, who is chairman of the World Executive of Herut Hazohar, went on to say that Israel’s security is linked with aliyah as are the “liberated areas” because “our historic places must be settled by Jews.” The conference will concentrate on the problems of aliyah and will call upon its members to settle in Israel. The Herut leadership was charged with preparation of a five year program for aliyah.