British Government Refuses Parliamentary Discussion on Rescue of Jews

The British Government is not inclined at the present moment to have a full discussion in parliament on the question of rescuing Jews from Nazi-Europe, it was indicated today by Home Secretary Herbert Morrison and Foreign Secretary Anthony Eden.

“Though in principle I am not opposed to such a discussion, we must wait for a more convenient moment to hold it in order to produce the maximum good, “Mr. Eden declared in Commons, reiterating the government’s refusal voiced by Mr. Morrison earlier in the day.

The demand for a full parliamentary discussion on measures to save Jews in Nazi territories was voiced at today’s session of Commons by a number of members, some of whom also demanded that Britain revise its immigration regulations in order to enable more Nazi victims to find refuge here.

In replying to these demands, Mr. Morrison stated that “action cannot be taken which might impede the successful prosecution of the war.” The vital thing, he said, is to win the war and bring those guilty of the massacres of Jews to account. Morrison’s reply was termed “gravely unsatisfactory” by Miss Eleanor Rathbone, Independent Conservative, who announced from the floor that she will seek an early opportunity to again raise the question before parliament adjourns.

The attitude of the British Government on the question of immediate action to help Jews in Europe is criticized today in an editorial in the News-Chronicle, leading London newspaper. “Twelve weeks,” the paper writes, “have elapsed since the declaration on the Jewish sufferings in Nazi countries was made and nothing has been done to implement the brave words. Morrison’s answers suggest that the Government’s attitude is one of sheer inaction. Meanwhile, the slaughter continues. Sanctuary under any terms would be better than certain death. The quibbles put forward by Morrison are repugnant to the conscience of humanity. Doesn’t parliament care enough for its good name to do all that is possible to give practical effect to its resolutions of sympathy?”