PALESTINE PROBLEM

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LXXII, 24 November 1938, Page 9

PALESTINE PROBLEM

SEEKING A SETTLEMENT CONFERENCE IN LONDON ■ j ! FORMAL INVITATIONS SENT OUT | (British Official Wireless! i (Received 24th November. 10.42 a.m.) i RUGBY, 23rd November. \ Mr Malcolm MacDonald, Secretary of State for the Colonies, told the House i of Commons that he hoped that discussions on Palestine would open in London within the next few weeks. Formal invitations to send representatives had already been sent to Egypt, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Transjordan and the Jewish Agency. The Government was still in communication with Yemen on the matter. Regarding a Palestinian Arab delegation, he had informed the High i Commissioner that Britain desired that all the important leading groups in the country should be represented and asked him to endeavour to arrange this in consultation with groups or individuals concerned, and report as soon as possible. “I have already informed the House of Britain’s attitude towards the present Mufti of Jerusalem," said Mr MacDonald, "but as to individuals at present deported or subject to an exclusion order, if as a result of the High Commissioner’s consultations it is proposed

that any of these should be amongst the representatives of Palestinian Arabs. Britain will give facilities to them to proceed to London for the purpose of the discussions." Mr MacDonald intimated that the decision on the Mufti was final and reemphasised Britain’s inntention that the discussions should not be unduly prolonged.