AGITATORS BUSY

Sun (Auckland), Volume 1, Issue 60, 2 June 1927, Page 9

AGITATORS BUSY

EGYPTIAN TROUBLE COMPLICATIONS AVOIDED SETTLEMENT PROBABLE By Cable. — Pi-ess Association.—Copyright Reed. 12.15 p.m. LONDON, Wed. Sir Austen Chamberlain, Foreign Secretary, in the House of Commons, 'replying to questions ,said that for some time the Egyptian Army had attracted the attention of a section of local politicians seeking to increase their strength, also to convert it into a weapon at the disposal of only one party. This vitally concerned Britain, in view of her interest in the defence of the Suez Canal and her obligation to protect foreigner. Britain could not afford to have the position complicated by the presence of a potentially hostile force. The Egyptian War Committee a few days ago recommended the deputies to increase the strength and armament of the Infantry and the cancellation of the Sirdar’s budgetary credit. The effect of the later would be to bring the British Inspector- v General and Commander-in-Chief under the Egyptian Ministry, resulting in the ruling party being able to exercise unchecked power over the army. The High Commissioner, after consultation with the British Government, sent a Note to the Egyptian Government setting out the British viewpoint on the whole question, which was that it should properly be subject to an agreed settlement in the best interests of Britain and Egypt. The Note offered to negotiate till such an agreement was reached, provided that the present safeguards in the meantime were continued. Efforts were in the meanwhile made to foment political excitement such as led to serious excesses in Alexandria in 1921. Three warships were sent to Egypt in the belief that their presence would restrain the disorderly elements which were the chief danger to the lives and interests of foreigners. Conversations between Lord Lloyd and the Egyptian Government were proceeding, therefore it was undesirable that he be pressed to make a further statement. Mr. J. R. Clynes (Labour) asked that papers be tabled and the discussion permitted. Sir Austen said he would have liked t ocommunicate the text of the Note, though it was more courteous to leave the Egyptian Government time to consider it before publication.

He would table the paper and allow, discussion at the proper time A. and N.Z.-Sun.