Mr. President. the Palestinian refugee problem is one of those which has plagued the Middle East since the ArabIsraeli war. Solution of the problem has defied the mediation efforts launched through the United Nations as well as the unilateral efforts of the United States and other nations interested in the welfare of these unfortunate victims and in the preservation of peace in the Middle East. Indeed. realistic discussion of the issues involved as between the Arab nations on the one hand and the Israeli Government on the other has been almost wholly lacking. In addition to the political and economic factors involved. the question is one which is dominated by strong emotions.