The Times SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 1938. New Inquiries in Palestine

Manawatu Times, Volume 63, Issue 48, 26 February 1938, Page 4

The Times SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 1938. New Inquiries in Palestine

Though it is tlie duty of the British Government tc3 hasten slowly in its search for a final solution of the Palestine problem, it is to be hoped that the new inquiries will not be prolonged a day longer than is necessary.

For the Jews of Palestine and their friends abroad delay means a slowing down in migration and the interruption of an economic policy which should be continuous and according to plan. For the Arabs it is likely to nourish hopes which cannot be realised, and to encourage agitators to believe that there is still something to be gained by agitation.

If, indeed, there were any likelihood of Jews and Arabs getting together and arranging a better plan than that of partition then delay would be well worth while. But no such happy prospect is in sight. Therefore, the sooner the new and amended scheme of partition can be completed, the better for all concerned. Uncertainty in such a case is a breeder of mischief, and should be quickly ended.

But the British Government has been well advised in deciding to admit some modifications in the scheme of the Koyai Commission which reported last July. The reactions of both parties have been seen and studied. Some grievances which it would arouse have come to light, and these may be removed. The Palestine Government has behaved with a discretion and resolution which has not always distinguished it in the past, and in spite of occasional sporadic outbursts of violence has now in the main restored order.

The recent statement issued by the British Colonial Office must not be interpreted as an abandonment of the main proposals of the commission. There is no weakening in regard to the fundamental of partition, which would outline Arab and Jewish areas destined in the future to be separate self-support-ing States, and retain enclaves under the British mandate. But a large held of further inquiry is open to the technical commission.

The declaration by the Colonial Secretary clearly showsthat the British Government is not committed to the details of the plan. In particular it does not accept the suggestion, which had caused much concern to Arabs, that Auabs should be compulsorily transferred from Jewish areas; and hints at some revision in their favour when it insists that the boundaries should be so drawn as to include “the fewest possible Arabs and Arab enterprises in the Jewish area and vice versa.”

But there are possible modifications in favour of the Jews as well as the Arabs. These inquiries cannot be unduly hurried. But the situation would be eased if an interim report concerning the most vital changes could be issued as soon as possible. That should clear the air and avert much unprofitable discussion.