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Hokitika Guardian, 19 March 1928, Page 2

Tiik Egyptian situation is again in a state of uncertainty. The malcontents in Egypt, doubtless stimulated by outside support and interest, are as restless and implacable as ever. The treaty of alliance between Britain and Egypt lias been rejected by tbe Egyptian Nationalist party, and it may now I e regarded as consigned to oblivion. Naturally the extremists in Egypt are delighted. hnt it is a rather curious fact that many of the leading English newspapers have not hesitated to express their satisfaction as well. They evidently think that Britain is well out of a, very bad bargain. Tbe “Times” considers that tbe AVafd rejected “a very good offer.” The “Aforning Post” regards the failure of the treaty ns a distinct stroke of luck for Britain, which has made dangerously generous offers to Egypt. The “Daily News,” which is sincerely anxious to help t l ' Nationalists in securing complete autonomy for Egypt, expresses its regret that the treaty was not accepted, and protests against the betrayal of Egyp’ts intorsts by “the unintelligent obstinacy of a handful of fanatics.” Tt seems that tlie terms offered to Egypt completely justify the statement of Sir AV. Jovn,son-flicks. that in rejecting tbe treaty the Nationalists “had displayed almost incredible folly.” On the whole, it looks as if that small but energetic body of extremists, whose motto is “all or nothing.” have thrown away an opportunity which they are not likely to get again for a. long time to come. Incidents such as these emphasise the essential necessity of Great Britain niaint.nining a strong naval force as a first line of defence for overseas possessions.