THE MOROCCO QUESTION.

Gisborne Times, Volume XVIII, Issue 1445, 4 May 1905, Page 2

THE MOROCCO QUESTION.

INTERESTING INTERVIEW.

By Telegraph—Press Association—Copyright London, May 2. Mr Lowther, interviewed at Tangier, said his mission was not simply ceremonious, but was inspired by the AngloFrench agreement, to give mutual diplomatic assistance. Qe added that M. Delcasse’s proposals to the Saltan were in complete conformity with the spirit of the agreement and would not injure any third party.

| _ Auckland, last night. I Captain Scott Harden, interviewed, said I that some years ago, when in Morocco, I “ Kaid Sir Harry MoLean told him he I could have made Morocco what Kitchener I made Egypt, but the Home authorities I thwarted him in every way. Time after I time he asked the Foreign Office for BriI tish instructors and officers to train the | army, but each request was refused until I his position became intolerable, and the | few British officers in the Moorish capital I were replaced by Frenchmen, who now j hold all the posts of trust. Nelson Baid | that Tangier was as important to England las Gibraltar. That fortress would be prac--1 tically useless to England if Tangier was I held by another Power. Frenoh dominaI tion was all right just now, in view of the rappreohement with France. A few years will tel) what we have paid for Egypt. Captain Harden thinks it possible,that the next European war will arise from complications in the north of Africa, owing to the proximity of Gibraltar. Kaid McLean’s opportunity to aid Britain has gone with his resignation. Francs has got the power we refnsed. Germany is trying to tako it from her. It is worth while considering whether or not it is worth while to stand I well in with the Spaniards who hold Tel- j van and the strongly fortified islands north I of Gibraltar.’’ I