One of the first practical results of the British Government’s declaration was the appointment in March, 1918, of a Zionist Commission for Palestine.
The objects and status of the Commission were laid down as follows:—
The Commission should represent the Zionist Organization.
It should act as an advisory body to the British authorities in Palestine in all matters relating to Jews, or which may affect the establishment of a national home for the Jewish people in accordance with the Declaration of His Majesty’s Government.
The objects of the Commission were:—
1. To form a link between the British authorities and the Jewish population of Palestine.
2. To co-ordinate the relief work in Palestine and to assist in the repatriation of exiled and evacuated persons and refugees.
3. To assist in restoring and developing the Colonies and in organizing the Jewish population in general.
4. To assist the Jewish organization and institutions in Palestine in the resumption of their activities.
5. To help in establishing friendly relations with the Arabs and other non-Jewish communities.