akuperma said:
”The principle economic problem for hareidim in Israel is that there is law prohibiting Jews from working unless they complete army service”
Do you seriously believe this?
I was sure that the principle problem was an institutionalised aversion to doing anything other than learning Torah – even if at the expense of others who are forced to support you when you come abroad collecting?
The stream of collectors in London is rapidly increasing to the point of often 7/8 every Shacharis, most of whom carry a certificate stating that they are collecting for ”debts” (not medical emergencies etc which economics are not to blame for).
Many people here question if this system is sustainable in the long run, apart from the fact that the UK recession means people are less able to support their Israeli brethren. Not to mention the many Aniyai Ircho.
Things have to change, regardless of the draft situation.