THE HADRAHAMAUT

Wairarapa Times-Age, 9 April 1938, Page 10

THE HADRAHAMAUT

RECOGNITION OF BRITISH SPHERE OF INFLUENCE. LONDON, April 7. The diplomatic correspondent of the Australian Associated Press says one clause of the Anglo-Italian Agreement provides for Italy’s recognition of Britain’s sphere of influence in the Hadrahamaut, 33,000 square miles of territory in Southern Arabia, where Italy, during the sanctions dispute attempted to establish commercial organisations. Britain, in March, 1937, by an Order-in-Council, assumed Governmental powers over the Hadrahamaut, establishing Mr W. H. Ingrams, of the Colonial service, as Political Adviser at Makalla.

The ‘‘Daily Herald” alleges that Britain, by Air Force raids, and visits of warships, has virtually forcibly annexed the territory from the natives and has bargained with Mussolini for recognition in exchange for recognition of the Abyssinian conquest. Actually, Britain became interested long before the Anglo-Italian dispute. It is stated that Britain’s position there is legally watertight and will be, recognised in the Anglo-Italian Agreement. Britain regards it as a major interest. No hostile power should be on either side of the Red Sea, because of the challenge to trade routes.