Allon Says Israel Must Build Air Raid Shelters to Protect Populous Centers

Deputy Premier Yigal Allon told the Knesset today that Israel must build air raid shelters despite the fact that it has a highly sophisticated air defense system to prevent enemy planes from reaching centers of population. He said the first priority must be given to building shelters in the front line settlements in range of enemy mortar and artillery fire. Such shelters exist in most kibbutzim in the Beisan and Jordan valleys. They serve as dormitories for children each night. Mr. Allon, who is Minister of Education and Culture, proposed that they be converted to day-time classrooms so that schooling could continue during attacks. His plan was referred to committee for discussion.