Chapter 29
Laws Derived from Isaiah: Running, Walking, Commerce, Measuring, Reading, Speaking
SPEAKING ON SHARBATH AND YOM TOV WITH THE OBJECT OF CONDUCTING EVERYDAY AFFAIRS
57.a. As far as restrictions on speech on Shabbath or Yom Tov are concerned, the conduct of public affairs is regarded as a mitzva, provided those affairs indeed have to be dealt with that day.
57.b. It follows that, where there is a need to do so, one may discuss matters of public importance with government officials on Shabbath.
57.c. One is not allowed to perform any other forbidden act merely on the grounds of public necessity, even if it entails the violation of a Rabbinical (rather than a Torah) prohibition.
57.d. See also paragraph 55b above.

