Word War II–dated TLS signed “Ch. Weizmann” and "S. Brodetsky," one page both sides, 8 x 10, The Jewish Agency for Palestine letterhead, October 23, 1941. Letter to Walter Ettinghausen, stamped "Confidential," detailing the Jewish Agency for Palestine's efforts to mobilize Zionist and Jewish support in Britain during World War II. The letter discusses the establishment of a special department to advocate for Jewish immigration and colonization in Palestine, as well as plans for a crucial conference in London featuring Dr. Weizmann and David Ben-Gurion.
In part: "The Executive have been discussing with leading members of the different Zionist bodies in London, as well as with the British Section of the Jewish Agency for Palestine, the present political situation and the steps which ought to be taken to mobilise all Zionist and Jewish forces in this country, under the direction of the Jewish Agency, for the advancement of our aims in Palestine. The Executive are convinced that every Jew in this country can greatly contribute, at this critical moment, to safeguarding the future of our people and our homeland, and can and must take an active part in our political work; in enlightening British public opinion on the general Jewish situation, and on our efforts and achievements in Palestine which provide the only lasting solution of the Jewish problem.
The Executive have, therefore, decided to establish a special Department, the task of which will be to bring before British public opinion, as well as before the Jews of this country, the urgency of the Jewish problem and the important part which Palestine can play in its solution through large-scale immigration and colonisation under suitable political conditions. Such a Department can only perform its functions adequately if it has behind it the full weight of Zionist and Jewish support.
The Executive have accordingly decided to convene a special Conference of selected laymen from London and the provinces, at which Dr. Weizmann and Mr. Ben-Gurion will report on the present political situation, the position in Palestine, and the problems facing us during and after the war; and where Dr. Brodetsky will outline a plan for our work in this country. A general discussion will follow.
The Conference will be held at the Anglo-Palestinian Club (43/44 Great Windmill Street, Piccadilly, London, W.1.) on Sunday, November 9th, under the Chairmanship of Dr. Brodetsky. The morning session will open at 11 a.m. with statements from Dr. Weizmann and Mr. Ben-Gurion; lunch will be provided (1.30 to 2.30 p.m.) in the Club’s restaurant; and Dr. Brodetsky’s statement will follow in the afternoon. The Conference will close at 5.30 p.m.
We should like to extend to you an urgent invitation to attend this meeting; we sincerely hope that you will be able to be present, and to take part in the important work which the new Department will have to undertake. Would you kindly let us know as early as possible whether we may expect you at the Conference." In fine condition, with a couple of small stains. A highly significant document, shedding light on the Zionist leadership's strategies during one of the most pivotal moments in Jewish history.
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