NOT WANTED AT TALKS

Auckland Star, Volume LXIX, Issue 278, 24 November 1938, Page 11

NOT WANTED AT TALKS

Grand Mufti And Conference At London. MINISTER EMPHATIC. Independent Cable Service. (Received J p.m.) RUGBY, November 23. The Dominion's Secretary, Mr. Malcolm Mac Donald, told the House of Commons that he hoped the discussions with regards to Palestine would open in London within the next few weeks. Formal invitations to send representatives have already been sent to Kgvpt. Iraq. Saudi. Arabia, the Trans-Jordan and the Jewish Agency. The Government is still in communication with Yemen on the matter. Regarding the Palestine Arab delegation, he was informed that the High Commissioner in Britain desired that all important leading groups in the country should be represented, and asked him to endeavour tw arrange this in consultation with the groups or individuals concerned and to report as soon as possible. "I have already informed the House of Britain's attitude towards the present Mufti of Jerusalem, but as to individuals at present deported or subject to exclusion order, if. as the result of the High Commissioners consultations, it is proposed that if any of these should be amongst the representatives of the Palestinean Arabs, Britain will give facilities to them to proceed to London for the purpose of discussions."

_ Mr. Mac Donald intimated tliat the decision on the Mufti was final and he reemphasised Britain's intention that the discussions should not be unduly prolonged.