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EGYPT AND SUDAN December 18. 1946 CONFIDENTIAL OH'V
CopfNo. 62 Mr. Powker to Mr. Bevin, (Received 19>th December) (No. 1884) (Telegraphic) Cairo, 13th December, 1946 WEEKLY appreciation. The change of Government has not diminished the internal political tension and the Opposition elements are just as vehement in their condemnation of the- Nokrashi Government as they were in attacking Sidky Pasha. They maintain that a change for the better can only be brought about by new parliamentary election and the disappearance of allegedly autocratic minority regime. At a press conference on 12th December Nahas Pasha vigorously denounced Nokrashi Pasha as too weak to handle the treaty situation or to present Egypt's case effectively to U.N.O. 2. An anti-Saadist demonstration which took place in Cairo on 8th December was followed by a small counter-demonstration after some youths had attempted to set fire to Saadist Party's^lub. The National Students Front has issued a statement which was published by Waf dist official newspaper demanding a democratic Government, a freely-elected Parliament, the abolition of all State legislation restricting public liberties and the breaking off of negotiations and the reference of Egypt's case to the Security Council. 3. According to reports from Palace sources, Nokrashi's Cabinet nomina- tions were not accepted in toto by King Farouk, who apparently objected to three of the names originally submitted and substituted others. One of those substi- tuted was Allouba Pasna, who has not so far accepted Ministry of WaJkfs because he apparently objected to being a second string and also disliked the offer of a minor Ministry. He evidently wishes to be free to oppose the existing treaty proposals. Two other Liberals who have accepted office are believed to hold dissident views as regards the treaty. All this has naturally engendered a no doubt legitimate assumption that the coalition of the Saadists and Liberals is uneasy and there is general lack of confidence in the Government's ability to surmount the acute difficulties of the hour. King Farouk has taken bold initiative in a bid to stave off a deadlock on the treaty issue by calling upon the one party leader who has unreservedly supported the latest proposals. The general public, however, is not impressed by seemingly makeshift reversion to a Premier whose dismissal from office only ten months ago followed an outcry against his method of repressing the students' manifestations. Nokrashi Pasha is expected to make a statement on domestic and foreign policy in Parliament on 16th December. 4. Statement made in Khartum by the Governor-General of the Sudan on 7th December and its fortuitous coincidence with Egyptian Cabinet crisis has put the spotlight on the Sudanese question and re-emphasised to the Egyptian mind the difficulties of reaching a mutually acceptable settlement with Great Britain. It .seems clear that, following the Governor-General's statement, there has been a hardening of Egyptian opinion generally on this issue and a manifest tendency ta regard the reference to United Nations Organisation or Security Council as increasingly inevitable from Egyptian point of view. At all events political circles have inferred from relevant paragraph of Nokrashi's letter accepting Premiership that the new Government stands in the same position as its prede- cessor in regard to the Sudan. The Sudanese delegation headed by Al Obhari has published in the Egyptian press a statement denouncing the Governor-General's declaration as deceptive and reaffirms its aim to create a unified State of the Nile Valley under the crown of King Farouk. 5. Constitutional Liberal Party has resumed publication of its official news- paper Siassa, which has been defunct for some time past. 6. Press reports that Sidky Pasha has declined an offer to be appointed Chief of loyalist Cabinet on the grounds of ill-health. 7. Arrangements are being made to reopen the universities, but according to the press first-year students will be excluded for the time being. At the time of recent disorders it was reported that it was mainly first-year students who took [84—100] COPYRIGHT OF THE PUBLIC RECORD OFFICE. LONDON
part in the agitation. There is now, however, unrest in Az. . . . following an apparently anti-Nokrashi demonstration at Assiut religious institution on llth December, when there were heavy casualties including three killed. It is reported that Sheikhs of Assiut institution have resigned en bloc. 8. Mahmoud Ghazali Bey, Director-General of Public Security since 1942, has been prematurely placed on pension by a decision of the new Council of Ministers. His successor is an official who was previously appointed assistant Director-General of Public Security by Nokrashi. 9. Newspaper Misri was confiscated on 12th December for publishing a detailed report on disturbance at Assiut referred to above. 10. Arab League Council has terminated its discussions for the time being, but has decided that session is mei'ely adjourned so that delegates may be summoned when necessary to discuss developments in regard to Palestine, regarding which various decisions taken by the Council have been reported separately. . F . . COPYRIGHT OF, THE PUBLIC RECORD OFFICE, LONDO*
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CONFIDENTIAL EGYPT AND SUDAN December 28, 194Q Section 1
Copy #0.6 2 WEEKLY APPRECIATION Sir R. 1. Campbell to Mr. Bevin. (Received 2Sth December) (No. 1958) attitude regarding its interpretation of the (Telegraphic) Sudanese protocol at this stage, making it Cairo, 28th December, 1946 clear that the Sudan could ultimately Makramite Party has issued resolutions become independent of Egypt. condemning draft treaty agreed to by 4. Sanhouri, who was the Egyptian dele- Sidky Pasha and have taken exception to gate at New York, gave an interview in the dissolution of the Egyptian delegation. Paris to the Ahram correspondent, in The resolutions closely follow the lines of which he stated that the decision of United the delegation's declared policy. Nations Organisation regarding the evacu- 2. On 23rd December head of Wafdist ation of foreign forces from countries opposition in the Senate moved a resolution which did not desire their presence would condemning the Governor-General's state- greatly help Egypt in her treaty negotia- ments in Khartoum regarding the ultimate tions. independence of the Sudan, and alleged 5. Christmas Eve was made an occasion adherence of the Egyptian Government for demonstration by Egyptian terrorists thereto. He asserted that the Egyptian who threw six bombs in different parts of Government should have [ ? group omit- Cairo, including one in the Anglo-Egyptian ted ]ed Governor-General. He also objected Union. There were no British casualties to the termination of the contract of the but three Egyptians were injured. Three Egyptian Grand Kadi of the Sudan persons were arrested, all Moslem brethren, stating that this unmasked the British and one of them was found with a hand policy in the Sudan. Nokrashy said that grenade on his person. he was studying the case of the Grand Kadi 6. The trial of the accused in the case of and denied that Egyptian rights were being Amin Osman's assassination has been post- sacrificed. The assent of the quorum poned owing to the judge's declaring him- prevented a vote. self incompetent to try the case on technical 3. The ambassador, shortly after his grounds. return, was received by the Prime Minister 7. Two universities have been reopened, and King Farouk, both of whom were very but a large majority of students have been friendly but held out .no hopes that the excluded nominally on the grounds of non- Egyptian Government would modify its payment of fees. [This telegram is of particular secrecy and should be retained by the authorised recipient and not passed on] Cypher/OTP. CABINET DISTRIBUTION FROM CAIRO TO FOREIGN OFFICE Mr. Bowker. D. 11.27 p.m. llth October, 1946, No. 1625. II. 12.53 &.». 12th October, 1946. llth October, 1946. Repeated to Beirut ) Bagdad ) Jerusalem ) Saving. Jedda ) Alexandria) o-
Weekly Appreciation. < ^ /,' Sidky Pasha's proposal to visit London for talks with ,Mr, Bevin has become a highly controversial issue and is jvigorously condemned by Wafd and Makramite parties. Hesitation of Liberal and Saadist Party leaders to announce whether they would accompany Sidky Pasha to London or not has to some extent enhanced controversial aspect of this question but Sidky Pasha has now stated to the Press that they have agreed to accompany him and that if he goes to London he will do so in his capacity as Head of Government and not as head of Treaty Delegation. Hussein Sirry is reported in Press to hold the view that Sidky Pasha should not go to London except with the consent of the Egyptian Delegation. / 2. Abdel Fattah Lobia Pasha who did not attend the last meeting of Egyptian Delegation owing to indisposition has declared to Ahram that he was in full agreement with Sherif Sabry, Hussein Sirry and Ali Shamsi as regards Treaty negotiations. Since his resignation Loutfi el Sayed Pasha is reported to have [? grps. omtd. ] Egyptian case to U.R.O. [sic ? U.N.O. ] was imminent and that Egyptian public could not be blamed for losing patience. Ali Maher Pasha has stated to pro-Wafdist newspaper "Misri" that President of Egyptian Delegation should now vouch for proceedings of .'. : ' i /the • the Delegation's meetings in order to bring facts before the nation. The Syndicate of lawyers of National Bar, President of which is a Wafdist has pressed a resolution urging rupture of negotiations. 3. In a comment to "Ahram" on recent series of declarations about Treaty negotiations Heikal Pasha deplored the fact that whereas Lord Stansgate's statement indicated perfect agreement on British side various statements made by the Egyptian Delegates were evidence of dis-unity and that it was incumbent upon leaders of public opinion to rise above party dissentions and unite for the sake of Egyptian future. A plea for union has also been made by nationalist leader Hafez Ramadan. 4. Moslem Brethern Society's newspaper has published texts of petitions submitted by the Society to King Farouk and Sidky Pasha urging that either negotiations must be broken off immediately or that Cabinet must resign and make way for a more representative Government. This Society has also published in its newspaper a long manifesto re-iterating its Hews on various aspects of Treaty negotiations (see paragraph 5 of Weekly Appreciation telegram NO, 1439) urging non-tgrp.undec. 1 co-operation] with British Economic Social and Cultural Delegations until evacuation is completed. These instances confirm previous indications that Moslem Brethern Society werp veering towards the Left and are said to make Bloc. 5. Strike of C^iro tramways and omnibus workers for four days caused considerable inconvenience to public but strike has now been called off for the time being and fears that it might spread amongst other Unions have not so far been realised. The Government wisely insisted on return to /work -a-
work as & necessary condition to any further consideration of workers demands and their firm attitude and indications of their determination to maintain public order have doubtless been main factor in securing a resumption of work, Since then .possibility of further trouble cannot however be rul^d out in view of the fact that a number of workers arrested in connexion with the strike have yet to be tried. Nabil Abbtis Halim has been active in mediating between strikers and Government. The strikers have been warned by the Government that their action is illegal. 6. In general state of public security in Cairo remains precarious. The Government has now decided to postpone re-opening of Universities and schools until November 9th a decision which is hotly attacked by Makramite newspaper "Kutla", Extra police patrols are in evidence in Cairo and a ban has been placed on meetings of youth organisations. "Trade d'Egypte11 reports arrest of a street vendor for distributing anti-Government pamphlets. Police are reported to have discovered evidence of plans of concerted action by some students to destroy bridges and endanger public security with bombs and other weapons. Youth elements attached to various parties and organisations are reported to have passed a resolution to decide their course of action on basis of patriotic sentiment alone and not necessarily according to Party directives. 7. The last Comnunist remaining in detention as a result of anti-Communist drive in July has now been released on bail of £E40. Secret Communist propaganda' activity is /continuing COPYRIGHT OF THE PUBLIC REpORO OFFICE. LONDON 4 Reference:-
continuing and authorities have not so far traced its source. An underground Communist periodical entitled "Resistance" is now being circulated. 8. Mr. Truman's latest statement on Palestine has had a very unfavourable reception in Egypt. V
[This telegram is of particular secrecy and should tie retained by the authorised recipient and not passed on] [CYPHER] CABINET DISTRIBUTION FROM CAIRO TO FOREIGN OFFICE Sir R.I. Campbell No. 1?86 D. 10.08 a.m. 24th Aijgust, 1946 24th August, 1946 R. 12.42 p.m. 24th August, 1946 Repeated to Bagdad Saving Beirut Saving Jerusalem Saying Jedda Saving / /V Alexandria/ Saving ddddddd
Amr Pasha* s discussions with King Farouk and Sidki Pasha „ with a view to finding [grpf undec.] way for acceptance of substance of His Majesty's Government's last treaty proposals i coincided with aggravation of internal party discord owing: (1) to by-elections (see paragraph 8 of ky telegram No. 1371), the alleged cooking of which by th^ Government has thoroughly fired the Saadists against Sidjki Pasha; (2) revival of Liberal appetites (see my] telegram i Mo. 1309 paragraph 7) in view of possible fal[L of SidkJ. Pasha in the event of rupture of negotiatioos; . (3) the sudden obstreperousness of some Moderate Independent members of the Delegation due perhaps to their fear of being associated with an unpopular Prime Minister in the treaty concessions and/or ambitions to upset i Sidki Pasha and take his place; j (4) intensification of Llakram's extremis^ (with a
. ' \,•4 vi v* '. ', . • . :I view' r / - 2- view no doubt to coming out of the negotiations on top of the Nationalist wave) and of llakram-l'/afd rapprochement; (5) intensification of Wafd's attacks on Sidki Pasha on the ground that he was unsupported in ip.s national \ cause by yielding to British demands. The V/afd however has been attacking Sidki Pasha more than the British and these tactics are possibly due to the desire of the i/afd not to cut all the bridges between* it and the British at. a moment when a change of Government is thought to be possible. In this connexion it is perhaps significant that Wafd whicK h has been having meetings during the last week with a view to deciding its policy in the present critical juncture has hitherto delayed its expected pronouncement. 2. It is uot clear how far King Farouk and Sidki Pasha [grp. undec.j Amr's messages'and advice really endeavoured • to influence the Egyptian delegation in the direction of compromise on the treaty issues. At one moment the delegation appeared to be divided for and against compromise but eventually lined up for intransigeance, influenced perhaps by the internal political considerations indicated in paragraph 1. Anyhow tfidki rasha finally went with the tide ( and the Egyptian Delegation unanimously rejected the British proposals and re-fused to modify its attitude as defined in its official notification of 1st August. Sidki Pasha both to the British delegation and to the press insisted that this/ . 3 - this reply did not involve a rupture and that the field was open to further exchange of views. 3* The extremist elements and sections of the press both of the regime and of the opposition have been advocating strong action in the event of the rupture of negotiations e.g. boycotting of British goods, "national struggle" (an euphemism for manifestation (?s omitted] and disorders) denunciation of the 1936 Treaty, reference to United Nations Organisation, etc. Latterly Sidki Pasha and the Palace had evidently been influencing some .of the newspapers of the present regime • in the sense of moderation. It remains to be seen what attitude these organs will take as a result of the present deadlock. Owing to indiscretions of the Egyptian delegates the public is pretty well informed on the points of difference between the British and the Egyptian negotiators. 1-Ieanwhile the press is indulging in all sorts of speculations regarding a change of Cabinet and even a Government organ has urged national union. i. Press published a letter addressed by Ashari, President of the Sudanese delegation, to Egyptian ' delegation recalling assurances alleged by the writer to have been given in Parliament and to the, Sudanese delegation by the Egyptian Prime Minister that he would / not sign a treaty which did not provide for the unity of the/
t/:S? the Nile Valley under the Egyptian Crown. 5. It is reported in the press that the Government propose to promulgate toy decree laws, which are subject to subsequent approval by Parliament, legislation already submitted or about to be submitted to Parliament to deal more effectively with Communist activities, strikes of Government officials etc., (see paragraph 5 of my telegram No, 1233 and paragraph 7 of my telegram Ho, 1309)• ;.''"'.-"-;/., \ 6. Wafdist newspaper published statement by "J/ ? > • / / *- Wahas Pasha denouncing the exploitation of religious antagonism as political weapon and reaffirming the ; liafd's tolerant attitude towards religious minorities. This statement is no doubt directed mainly against the Moslem brethren. 7. Extraordinarily high level of Nile flood continues to cause grave apprehensions, 8. Revival of Turco-Russian conflict over the Straits has attracted particular attention owing to its bearing on the problem of the Suez Canal and Anglo- Egyptian Treaty negotiations. 9. The press continues to show considerable interest in the Palestine issue and to object to restraints on the Lfufti's liberty and to alleged British representa- tions on this subject.
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V 1 *•' THIS DOCUMENT IS THE PROPERTY OF HIS BRITANNIC MAJESTY'S GOVERNMENT
August 3, 1946. EGYPT AND SUDAN. SECTION 1. CONFIDENTIAL.
Copy No. 6 2
Sir . Campbell to Mr. Bemn. — (Received 3rd August.) (No. 1329.) Cairo, '2nd August, 1946. (Telegraphic.) WEEKLY appreciation. Egyptian press and public have been much worked up during the period under review by the realisation that negotiations were reaching a critical stage owing to essential differences of opinion between the two delegations regarding the extent of Egyptian military commitments, time of evacuation and the Sudan. Suggestions that the negotiations were about to break down were numerous, but Sidki Pasha has made statements discouraging such pessimism and suggesting that treaty negotiations would continue with the aim of, eliminating considerable . differences of view, which he admitted. Press has been full of rumour to the effect that British were deliberately procrastinating and that the negotiations should be broken off and reference made to U.N.O. Wafdist and Makramite press continue opposition to the treaty terms and particularly to joint defence board2.. Egyptian press continues to criticise alleged mild British treatment of Jewish terrorists and failure of British to maintain order in Palestine— a failure which is pointedly contrasted with British complaints about security in Egypt. [80—41]
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Reference:-^
3. Egyptian insistence on Egyptian representation at the Peace Conference has been reflected extensively in the press, to which Egyptian Minister for Foreign Affairs has announced the despatch of an Egyptian delegation to Paris to plead for Egyptian participation. 4. Although six of the eleven members of Young Egyptian Party arrested in connexion with the murderous assault on British troops in Alexandria have now confessed their guilt, Under-Secretary of State for the Interior has expressed pessimism regarding the successful prosecution of the accused. He bases his pessimism on the powerful influences which may play in favour of the accused and on the lack of energy of Sidki Pasha, whom he describes as being " tired." .Meanwhile, one more of the accused arrested in connexion with Cairo murder gang has been released on insignificant bail. He is a particularly bad suspect. "Representations have been made to the Egyptian Prime Minister. 5. Of the Europeans arrested in Alexandria in connexion with anti-Com- munist drive, all but two have been released. Thirteen more Egyptians have been released in Alexandria and Cairo, leaving about 50 still under arrest. New Wafdist paper Voice of the People, which is replacing suppressed Wafdal Misri, has begun to appear. 6. Mufti is coming somewhat into limelight in view of frequent press reports of the visits or proposed visits of Palestinian leaders to him. Representa- tions have been made to the Egyptian Prime Minister on the subject.
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EGYPT. August 30, 1946.
CONFIDENTIAL. SECTION 1.
Copy No. 6 2 . /. Campbell to Mr. Bavin.—-(Received 3Qth August.) (No. 1402.) (Telegraphic.) Cairo, 30JA August, 1946. WEEKLY appreciation. Deadlock in treaty negotiations has naturally stimulated press campaign for breaking off of negotiations, but Wafdist press, while still insisting on total evacuation and united status of the Nile Valley under Egyptian Crown and maintaining its attack on Sidki Pasha, continues 'moderate tone of its references to Great Britain. Nahas Pasha, in a speech on the commemoration of Zaghloul's death, criticised the slowness of the negotiations and maintained only outlet from the present impasse was to consult the nation. He emphasised that Egypt would accept nothing but total evacuation and a united Nile Valley under the Egyptian Crown. Speech contained no violent expressions. Nahas Pasha also wrote his name in King's book on Bairam for first time since he was dismissed in 1944. This gesture, the holding back of Wafd manifesto (see paragraph 5 of my telegram No. 1386) and Wafd's relative moderation towards British are indica- tions of Wafd's hopes, which are no doubt encouraged by the fact that important members of the delegation are known to be in favour of Wafdist participation in the Government and the delegation. The public generally is inclined to think that present deadlock will render inevitable a change of Cabinet. Supporters of the present regime, of course, contemplate only reshuffling within the regime and it is understood that King Farouk's mind is at present working on these lines. Sidki Pasha is on bad terms not only with the Wafd but with the greater part of the Egyptian delegation and with other elements of the present regime and with many independents. His monopolisation of negotiations and his dictatorial attitudes are partly responsible for opposition to him. He seems, however, now to have made no unsuccessful efforts to conciliate Saadists and Liberals. 2. King Farouk, owing to his efforts to secure a more compromising attitude towards our treaty proposals, has been accused both of unconstitutional behaviour and truckling to British. The Ahram, in an apparently inspired article, emphasised constitutional and patriotic role played by King Farouk. His Majesty, in spite of the objections raised to his interventions, has continued to endeavour to influence members of the delegation in favour of compromise. He has at present gone off for a short cruise in the Mediterranean and his departure and Bairam holiday has caused a lull in political activities. Some newspapers have suggested that we have already made new treaty proposals, and, anyhow, the public generally expect us to do so. Failing any compromise there seems to be general conviction that Egypt will appeal to ILN.O. Indeed, Sidki Pasha, in answer to an enquiry of a local journalist, said that was natural course. 3. Mandour,'editor of the suppressed Wafd Al Misri, and various other persons arrested in connexion with Communist drive, have been released on bail. 4. Law establishing a Council of State has now been promulgated and it is stated that present Minister of Justice will be appointed president. 5. Egyptian delegation to U.N.O, is to tp-headed by Heikal; this appoint- ment has been criticised on the ground that th£ resident of the Senate is supposed to be independent of Executive and should nor be placed under orders of the Minister for Foreign Affairs. 6. There have been inundations of villages and crops here and there in Upper Egypt, but damage and distress are at present localised. Nevertheless, grave anxiety persists in view of continued ominous level of the Nile floods. 7. Egypt has appointed her delegation to Palestine Conference in London; president of delegation is Sanhouri, who has had close contacts with Iraq and Syria, where he served in advisory capacities.
[81—21] IS DOCUMENT 18 THE PROPERTY OF HIS BRITANNIC MAJESTY'S GOVERNMENT
CONFIDENTIAL EGYPT ARCHIVES December 21, 1946 Section 1 Copy No. 62 WEEKLY APPRECIATION Mr. Bowker to Mr, Bevin. (Received 21st December) (No. 1925) munique' pointed out that Akhb Reference:- I 111 M I i i 111 i 11 slandering each other in the press. Cairo by prominent Egyptian politicians and by city police reports indicate that Serag-ed- the Secretary-General of the Arab League Din Pasha is in contact with certain lead- whose guest he was. He was also received ing elements of the other Opposition by King Farouk. Mr. Jinnah, according parties and organisations who are reported to reports from unquestionable sources, has to be discussing collaboration in directing been mainly concerned with propagating the youth to threaten opposition to the the view of Moslem League regarding the Government. future of India., and, according to press 6. According to the press, preparations' reports, emphasised that eventual Hindu are being made for a forthcoming visit by "imperialism" in India would constitute King Farouk to Kharga Oasis. It is a grave threat to the Moslem world of the noticeable that King Farouk has not been Middle East. An English press corre- much in the public eye lately and it may spondent who was present at Mr. Jinnah's be that His Majesty is deliberately sitting press conference has remarked that Mr. back until it is possible to see whether or Jinnah's review of the situation in India not treaty situation develops in accordance appeared to be well over the heads of the with his hopes. Egyptians who were present. 7. Egyptian Labour Party has begun 11. Secretary-General of the Arab publication of a weekly review named League has addressed two notes to His AI Raya (The Banner), which in form and Majesty's Embassy for communication to content appears to be somewhat ambitious. His Majesty's Government, one which 8. The D.S.O. reports that the trial of suggests a delegation representing Pales- persons accused of the murder of Amin tinian Arabs should be invited to take part Osman Pasha and various other crimes, in Round-Table Conference when it is due to begin on 22nd December, is likely to resumed. The other suggests the time has be adjourned until February. come to allow the ex-Mufti to resume his 9. King Farouk was represented by his civil rights and return to Palestine. A chief aide-de-camp at a ceremonial on usually reliable informant reports that 15th December, when the American large quantities of anti-British pamphlets Ambassador formally handed over to the were distributed among Moslem pilgrims Egyptian authorities American airfield at during the recent pilgrimage to Mecca and Payne Field near Cairo. [group undecypherablejs this to the 10. Mr. Mohammed Ali Jinnah has spent Moslem Brethren Society, whose leader three busy days in Cairo being entertained performed pilgrimage. THIS DOCUMENT IS THE PROPERTY OF HIS BRITANNIC MAJESTY'S GOVERNMENT * EGYPT AND SUDAN. October 5, 1946. CONFIDENTIAL. SECTION 1. Copy No. g 2 Mr. Bowker to Mr. Bevin.—'(Received 5th October.) (No. 1508.) (Telegraphic.)" Cairo, 4 -LLL I I I I I I 11 b. There was a small-scale demonstration said to be organised by the Wafd in Cairo on the 1st October when a crowd of some 200 students and riff-raff acclaimed King Farouk and Nahas Pasha and shouted against Nokrashi. This was presumably "designed to indicate disapproval of the possibility that Nokrashi might be summoned to power. 6. Trial of the terrorist gang accused of murder of Amin Osman Pasha and attacking British forces personnel officials began on the 29th September and is continuing. All of the accused have pleaded not guilty and defending counsels have urged that their confessions were extracted under duress. 7. Al Bialy, Minister of Finance, is reported to have accepted the presidency of the so-called Egyptian Labour Party hitherto led by Nabil Abbed Halim. 8. General reaction to Lord ~Stansgate's departure is that the treaty negotiations must now be considered adjourned indefinitely. The Wafdist and Makramite press contend that they have failed altogether. Sidki Pasha has expressed a desire to proceed to London accompanied by Nokrashi and Heikal Pashas. THIS DOCUMENT IS THE PROPERTY OP HIS BRITANNIC MAJESTY'S GOVERNMENT EGYPT AND SUDAN. September 21, 1946. CONFIDENTIAL. SECTION 1. Copy No. 6 2 Sir R. I. Campbell to Mr. Bevin.—(Received 2lst September.) (No. 1482.) (Telegraphic.) Cairo, 2Qth September, 1946. WEEKLY appreciation. Wafd disappointment at Cabinet reconstruction naturally took form of violent attack on Sidki and new Cabinet, which is represented as having been formed in order to support Sidki in accepting British demands detrimental to the independence of Egypt against the will of the majority of the party and the nation generally, and at the .same time to secure a majority for this treaty in an unrepresentative Parliament. Nevertheless the Wafd does not seem to have jgiven up hope, since Nahas Pasha and other prominent Wafdists called at the fPalace to write their names in the Royal Book on return of King Farouk to 'Alexandria on the 17th September. Yesterday the Wafd held a long meeting, after which it was announced that Wafd would publish a manifesto to throw light on British and Egyptian treaty proposals which are of a nature to prejudice the independence of Egypt and unity of the Nile Valley. According to the press Wafd has alsqjinnouuced that public meetings will be held in Cairo and in the provinces to give further publicity to the above. Resumption of negotiations on the 17th September was preceded by feeling of optimism in the press and in the public based on the assumption that the British were going to make new proposals involving concessions to Egyptian demands. Position in delegation is still obscure. Makram in his newspaper has already come out with a condemnation .of the last British proposals. In reply to an enquiry regarding the rumour that the British were maintaining entirely their point of view regarding the Sudan, Heikal is reported in the press to have replied that the British could maintain their attitude but that the Egyptians would entirely maintain theirs. Attitude to Cherif Sabry has so far continued to be uncompromising, particularly regarding the Sudan issue. While it would seem that Cabinet reconstruction and attitude of King Farouk have influenced some independent delegates in the direction of moderation, it is still doubtful how many of them will actually abandon their opposition to Sidki in the delegation. After the first meeting of Egyptian delegation to consider our last proposals on the 18th September, Sidki held a meeting with Bedawi and Jacquet to discuss, according to the press, juridical aspect of Sudan question and its future administration in the light of treaties concluded previously. 2. Students of all faculties have now resumed their studies at Alexandria University. 3. Sidki has confidentially expressed apprehension regarding Soviet Legation's Communist activities and efforts to sabotage the treaty. 4. Trial of accused in Amin Osman murder case, which had been adjourned for over three months, began again on the 15th September, buff was immediately adjourned again until the 29th September. 5. Mufti, in an interview with a representative of .4 khbar el Yom, expressed the hope that Egypt's demands for independence would be realised, for, he added, the independence of the Arab countries, including Palestine, was the object for which they were struggling. Internal problems and Anglo-Egyptian Treaty negotiations have somewhat distracted public interest from "the Palestine Conference, but general feeling remains pessimistic as regards possibility of agreed settlement. [81—105] *.*. - „.».,.•.'. *.-,*»** "Wi'**1 « THIS DOCUMENT IS THE PROPERTY OP HIS BRITANNIC MAJESTY'S GOVERNMENT EGYPT AND SUDAN, September 28, 1946. CONFIDENTIAL. SECTION 1. ARCHIVES Copy No. {J2 Sir R, Campbell to Mr. Bemn.—(Received 2Sth September.) (No. 1494.) (Telegraphic.) , Cairo, 27th September, 1946. WEEKLY, appreciation. The publication by A khbar el Yom of the text of British drafts of article 2 of the treaty and Sudanese protocol confirmed the feeling of pessimism which had replaced the optimism preceding the resumption of negotiations. In view of the close connexion between Sidki Pasha and this newspaper it was generally supposed that he had given the text to it. 2. About the same time was published a letter of the Sudanese " delegation " to the Egyptian delegation urging abolition of Condominium Government, proclamation of a State of the Nile Valley within recognised limits of Egypt and Sudan under the Egyptian Crown, promulgation of a decree establishing a Government of Sudan to direct Sudanese affairs, the constitution of a Joint Egyptian-Sudanese Committee to co-ordinate matters of common interest, e.g., Defence, Foreign Affairs, &c., and the constitution of a representative assembly. 3. The Wafd, Makrarnite and Young Egyptian press organs urged that negotiations should be broken off and reference made to U.N.O. Emphasis was laid in the press on the differences among Egyptian delegates, it being generally known that all the independent delegates except Hafgroup undecipherable : ?fe]z Afifi were in opposition to Sidki Pasha. One of the objects of the reconstruction Cabinet, which was to bring independent delegates into line with Sidki Pasha, was shown to have been unsuccessful. 4. The Wafd has refrained from publishing its announced manifesto and has no doubt held its hand pending developments of the treaty negotiations. 5. The fact that the treaty negotiations have now failed is generally accepted, as well as the certainty that the British delegation will be returning to London. It was also first reported that Sidki Pasha would go to London, but afterwards it became known that the Egyptian delegates opposed his going either alone or with the delegation. It was rumoured that Sidki Pasha would resign on suspension of negotiations and that he would be replaced by Ntfkrashi, but apparently King Farouk wants to keep Sidki Pasha as the man most capable of preserving order. 6. A German prisoner of war escaped in the town of Alexandria from his escort of British military police, who fired after him and wounded him as well as an Egyptian in the street. An angry crowd at once surged up against the military police, who effected their escape, one of them into the Hotel Cecil, which was attacked by the crowd. The Egyptian police were able to disperse the crowd before much damage was done to the hotel. 7. The police have rounded up a number of Jews in the search for terrorists suspected of planning to murder the Mufti and British personalities, 8. With reference to paragraph 8 of my telegram No. 1268, there have been further serious incidents of gangsterism in Upper Egypt. In Assuit Province the army had to be used to round up bandits after a Mamour had been wounded and a minor official killed in an affray. It is alleged that this gansterism is beginning to spread from Upper Egypt to the Delta. 9. With reference to paragraph 5 of my telegram No. 1439 Cairo tramways and omnibus workers threaten to strike on the 10th October if their demands, which are rather extravagant, are not conceded by the Government. It is reported that taxi drivers will also strike in sympathy. 10. It is reported that the Wafd are now trying to come to an agreement with Moslem Brethren. There is a general feeling that both these organisations and the [" ? police] are preparing to make mischief. It is also alleged that Com- munist elements of Moslem Brethren and the Wafd are trying to establish contacts with one another. Three more Communists will be brought to trial. [82—8] ' ' COPYRIGHT OF THE PUBLIC RE.CORO OFFICE, LOMOOM I I I I I II I I I I I I I I I I I I 11. Palestine leaders have recently visited the Mufti, presumably to discuss the question as to whether or not Palestinian Arabs should attend the London Conference. General feeling remains pessimistic about the conference, which, however, is exciting little attention among a public absorbed in the critical situation arising out of failure of the Anglo-Egyptian negotiations. 12. King Farouk gave his annual reception to successful university and secondary school students. Addressing them in his message as '' Sons of the Valley of the Nile," His Majesty incidentally warned them against subversive spirit created by tendentious ideologies. 13. Wafd press alleges faking of Port Said municipal elections in which the Saadists swept the board. Port Said has long been a Wafdist stronghold. DOCUMENT IS THE PROPERTY OF HIS BRITANNIC MAJESTY'S GOVERNMENT EGYPT AND SUDAN November 8, 1946 CONFIDENTIAL SECTION 1 /,»• i ?'*. , -.. Copy No. 6 2 Mr. Bowker to Mr. Bevin. (Received 8th November) (No. 1653) ' (Telegraphic) Cairo, 8th November, 1946 WEEKLY appreciation. A further meeting of the Egyptian Treaty Delegation which was expected to take place on 9th November or 10th November has been postponed until llth November or 12th November, because the Cabinet Ministers have to proceed to Alexandria to accompany King Farouk on his official return to Cairo on 10th November. In the meantime, Sidky Pasha, who is still confined to his room, is reported by Mokhattam to have stated to its representative that he is busy pre- paring notes for the delegates containing explanations and replies to questions raised at the last meeting of the Egyptian Delegation. Makram Pasha is reported to have delivered a further attack on the latest proposals in the course of a speech made during the customary Bairam visit to Zaghloul's Mausoleum. The Ahram has published an article over the signature of "former Minister " containing precise text of the proposed Sudan protocol and suggesting that this text embodies the essential feature of the Egyptian and Sudanese claims provided that a strong Egyptian Government existed to enforce its provisions. The question whether a majority of the Egyptian Delegation will decide at their next meeting to accept the latest proposals remains very obscure; at the moment local feeling is not optimistic. 2. Abdel Galil Samra Pasha, the Liberal Minister of State and former Minister of Social Affairs who recently returned from the International Labour Organisation's Conference at Montreal, has submitted his resignation to Sidky Pasha who has declined tyaccept it. According to a reliable informant Samra Pasha wished to be put in charge of the Ministry of the Interior in order to manipulate the electoral machine in favour of the Liberal Party. 3. The Ahram has published a communique issued by the Watanist Party announcing the reconciliation of the two factions within the party led respec- tively by Hafez Ramadan and Senator Abdel Rahman El-Rafei. 4. The Cairo police report states the editor of independent newspaper Dustour (former organ of Saadist Party) has offered space for the publication of propaganda on behalf of the Egyptian Labour Party, recently constituted under the presidency of Maitre Abdel Rahman al-Bialy, Minister of Finance. Since becoming independent the Dustour has been in low water financially and at present has only a small circulation. 5. The anniversary of the Balfour Declaration passed quietly throughout the country, doubtless thanks to the Government's obvious determination to take all possible precautions to maintain order. 6. With reference to paragraph 4 of my telegram No. 1525 [group unde- cypherable : ? twelve] ringleaders of the Cairo tramways strike have been con- demned to three months' imprisonment with stay of execution and fined £E.50 each and two others were fined £E.10 each. A police report states that their syndicate paid the fines. 7. The Minister of Education has now decided that the schools and univer- sity will riot reopen until 16th November (see paragraph 2 of my telegram No. 1627). 8. The press announces the appointment by the Acting Minister of Com- merce of a governmental committee to devise means of combating the high cost of living regarding which the general public is becoming more and more anxious arid indignant. 9. The ex-Mufti is now residing in a suburb of Cairo and D.S.O. reports that his movements and visitors are being closely supervised. [83—75] \ »• DOCUMENT IS THE PROPERTY OF HIS BRITANNIC MAJESTY'S GOVERNMENT EGYPT AND SUDAN November 16, 1946 CONFIDENTIAL SECTION 1 Copy No,. 62 Mr. Bowker to Mr. Bevin. (Received Itith November) (No. 1698) (Telegraphic) Cairo, 16th November, 1946 WEEKLY appreciation. Egypt's foreign relations, and particularly the subject of treaty negotia- tions, were given exceptional prominence in the Speech from the Throne at the opening of Parliament on 14th November, suggesting, perhaps, that stabilisation of Egypt's international position is intended to have priority over the develop- ment of her internal economy. Anniversary of the national struggle on 13th November provided opportunity for attacking the present treaty position by the Wafd and Makramites, whose denunciations received great prominence in the press. Postponement of the Egyptian delegation's further meeting until 16th November is reliably ascribed to King Farouk's desire to work on those Independent negotiators who f^ar the possible consequences of backing Sidky Pasha, but the prolonged suspense is placing a severe strain on the public, which will no doubt be reflected when Parliament resumes normal business next week, and gives an obvious advantage to anti-treaty propagandists. The latter are throwing out hints of wavering and disunity among the Liberals, whose president has returned from New York to attend the next meeting of the Egyptian delega- tion and has addressed a meeting of his followers. Ismail Al Azhari, head of the Sudanese delegation, has returned to Cairo from London, and is reported to have visited the Wafdists and Makramites on 13th November. 2. On the opening of Parliament, King Farouk personally unveiled a bust erected as a tribute to the memory of the late Ahmed Maher Pasha. 3. Abdel Latif [group undecypherable : ? Talkit] Pasha has resigned from the post of Grand Chamberlain, ostensibly owing to ill health. According to a source in touch with the Palace, this resignation was prompted by a dispute with the acting Chief of the Royal Cabinet after [group undecypherable: ? Talkit] Pasha had obtained King Farouk's assent to proposed1 promotions and improved allowances for the staff of the Chamberlain's office which Hassan Youssef Bey subsequently successfully opposed. [Group undecypherable: ? Talkit], I gather, became seriously ill following this supposed rebuff, and it is reported that King Farouk wishes to promote the second Chamberlain to succeed him despite seniority of the first Chamberlain. 4. Vacancies in the Cabinet resulting from resignations of Saba Habashi Pasha and Abdel Galil Samra Pasha have now been filled without disturbing the distribution of Cabinet seats between the two political parties and the Independents, but the post of Vice-Premier vacated by Loutfi El Saved Pasha has not so far been filled It is reported that owing to Sidky Pasha's indisposi- tion Abdel Kawi Ahmed Pasha is continuing to supervise the affairs of the Ministry of the Interior, a necessary provision in view of the expectation of trouble when the schools and universities reopen on 16th November. 5. Issues of official Wafdist daily newspaper, a Wafdist weekly and the weekly organ of the Young Egypt Party were confiscated in the streets on 13th November, owing to publication of inflammatory articles urging the resump- tion of the struggle for the [groups undecypherable : ? Egyptian flag]. This anniversary passed off more quietly than was expected1, but there was a clash between Wafdist youths and police outside Wafd Party's club, where the Wafd held a meeting. Public political meetings were banned, and political parties met at their respective premises. A copy of an inflammatory pamphlet which was circulated on that diay was received by His Majesty's Embassy, and revolu- tionary slogans are reported to have been inscribed on walls. As a precaution the police detained a number of known agitators in Cairo and Alexandria on that day and posted strong forces in the streets. 6. Eleven persons accused of participation in hand-grenade incident at Alexandria last July have been committed for trial at the assizes, and 'are meanwhile being kept in custody. It is reported that those suspected of murder of Amin Osman Pasha will also be tried at assizes in December. [83—124] 7. A pamphlet of obvious Communist origin attacks Abb Ed Sadim's _yptian Labour Group as reactionary and designed to dupe the working class and gain public opinion. According to a police report, this party is anxious to nominate a candidate for a vacant seat in the Senate. 8. Moqattam reports an interview with the Grand Eabbi of Egypt denying a press report from Jerusalem that Egyptian Jews wished to emigrate to Palestine, and declaring that the Jewish community in Egypt lived in perfect harmony with the rest of the population and1 enjoyed full security without racial and religious discrimination. '*r 9. Recent release of Jewish and Arab internees in Palestine has occasioned singularly little comment locally, presumably owing mainly to preoccupation with Egypt's own internal and external problems. 10. Queen Farida made her first public appearance for a considerable time when she attended the opening of Parliament. THIS DOCUMENT IS THE PROPERTY OF HIS BRITANNIC MAJESTY'S GOVERNMENT EGYPT AND SUDAN. October 26, 1946. CONFIDENTIAL. SECTION 1. Copy No. g 2 Mr. Bow her to Mr. Bevin.—(Received 26th October.) (No. 1595.) (Telegraphic.) Cairo, 25th October, 1946. WEEKLY appreciation. There is an uneasy lull in political meetings, with Sidky Pasha absent in London'and King Farouk still at Alexandria. The Egyptian press is mostly preoccupied with the question of Egyptian sovereignty over Sudan but there has also been-some resentful criticism, particularly in Makramite and Wafdist news- papers, of Mr. Bevin's reference in his statement of the 22nd October to Egypt's internal difficulties and to the identity of British and Egyptian interests. The Wafdist Balagh decries his offer of guidance to Middle East countries in such matters as labour legislation and health services as a device to establish British hegemony in the Middle East. In a speech to a gathering of Alexandrian lawyers on the 20th October, Nahas Pasha emphasised that, whereas the next step was to refer Egypt's case to U.N.O., Sidky Pasha was not qualified to do this and that a strong Government supported by a truly representative Parliament must first take office. Meanwhile, Moslem Brethren Society's newspaper has been publishing a series of inflammatory and anti-British articles which His Majesty's Minister has brought to the notice of the Acting Prime Minister. The same newspaper has also appealed to Egyptian delegation to take the lead and to unite the country's leaders with a view ^conclusion of a national pact, regardless of party differences. Moderately reliable informant states that Moslem Brethren's leader is planning demonstrations for anniversary of Balfour Declara- tion and also on the occasion of the reopening of schools on the 9th November. 2. Director-General of Public Security reports arrest of a student belonging to Young Egypt Party in connexion with hand grenade incident at Alexandria on the 19th October. The competent authorities have banned a proposed general meeting of Young Egypt Party. A minor anti-Sidky Pasha and anti-British demonstration following the funeral in Cairo of a Wafdist Senator was dispersed by police. An illicit dump of 900 hand grenades is reported to have been seized in Alexandria. The attention of the Acting Prime Minister has been drawn by His Majesty's Minister to the violent tone of anti-Jewish pamphlets which are being circulated. 3. General situation is one of latent tension and it is widely feared that anti-Government and anti-British disturbances are being planned to take place after Bairam holiday when schools and universities are due to reassemble. An informant who may be considered reliable in this-connexion states that the great majority of Cairo University students are partisans of either the Wafd or Moslem Brethren, that students rather fear but do not respect Sidky Pasha, and that King Farouk has almost completely lost his former popularity with the students. This source added that students were beginning to establish contacts with organised groups of workers, mainly for nationalist and anti-British objectives. 4. According to a usually well-informed Copt, a conference of Coptic notables will meet shortly after Christmas to decide what action should be taken in view of present "persecution" of Copts. This proposal no doubt reflects growing apprehension of Copts at activities of Moslem Brethren and similar organisations. 5. Recent reports from consular agents show that provincial peasantry are still very hard hit by cost of living, which is tending to rise rather than fall. The ex-Minister of Social Affairs, who attended the recent International Labour Organisation Congress in Montreal, has stated to the press that arrangements have been made to engage the services of experts in social insurance. 6. Interest in the question of a Turk-Arab rapprochement has been revived by recent statement of Turkish Foreign Minister to a Syrian newspaper. King Farouk's informal visit to Mersina is recalled in this connexion (see paragraph I of Sir R. Campbell's telegram No. 1457). A hram comments that Turkey might be useful in mediating with the Great Powers for the furtherance of Arab Nationalist objectives, but a Wafdist editor suspects an underhand British manoeuvre to use Britain's Turkish ally as an instrument for keeping Arab States within British orbit. ' ' 4821 THIS DOCUMENT IS THE PROPERTY OP HIS BRITANNIC MAJESTY'S GOVERNMENT ARCHIVES EGYPT AND SUDAN, Nqvember 2, 1946 CONFIDENTIAL c SECTION 1 Copy No. 62 Mr. Bowker to Mr. Bemn. (Received 2nd November) (No. 1627) ' (Telegraphic) Cairo, 1st November, 1946 WEEKLY appreciation. The turmoil engendered by Sidky Pasha's reported statement relating to sovereignty over the Sudan and Mr. Attlee's counter-statement in the House of Commons has to some extent subsided. Leakages to the press which Minister for Foreign Affairs attributes to Mackram Ebeid, have given the public a pretty clear idea of the framework of the proposals despite the two Governments warn- ings against attaching credence to press reports from unauthorised sources. Sidky Pasha's health has improved and he evidently intends to preside over meeting of Egyptian delegation at all costs. In view of the inability of Heikal Pasha, the Constitutional Liberal leader who is heading the Egyptian delegation at the General Assembly of United Nations, to attend the meeting of Egyptian Treaty delegation, King Farouk is reported to have signed a royal rescript nominating vice-president of the Liberal Party, Ahmed Khashaba Pasha (1945 person- alities) vice Heikal Paslha. Although Sidky Pasha and Saadists appear to be optimistic as regards the prospects 6T*delegation's acceptance of the new pro- posals, attitude of independent members cannot be predicted. Mackram Ebeid is expected to oppose the new proposals-uncompromisingly. 2. There is a general expectation that the anniversary of the Balfour declaration will be marked by demonstrations, but competent authorities have given the embassy repeated assurances that all precautions are being taken to prevent disturbances. The official Wafdist newspaper has published a state- ment said to have been issued by Alexandria University students urging strikes in all Arab countries on that day. Director-General of Public Security states that it is now proposed to postpone the re-opening of all schools and universities until 16th November with a view to minimising anicipated dangerous disorder on 13th November (national festival day) and 14th November (opening of Parlia- ment). Despite the ban on meetings of political youth organisations, reports from various sources indicate that these elements are displaying considerable activity in discussing ways and means of achieving national objectives; in particular the name, Saleh Harb Pasha (personalities list, No. 55), president of the Young Men's Moslem Association, has been prominent in recent police reports, which state that he is in frequent contact with other organisations, such such as the Young Egypt Party and Ali Maher's Egyptian front, as an advocate of non-co-operation with the British. 3. Defence Security Officer reports that police are baffled by the skilful manner in which underground Communist propaganda is now being disseminated, and that at present they have no clue to the source of this propaganda. The Defence Security Officer considers Communists in Egypt have greatly improved their organisation and discipline as a result of the Government's anti-Communist drive last July. According to the press a number of Alexandrian workmen suspected of communism has been committed for trial at the assizes. 4. A counsel of the Alexandrian Court of Appeal has enlisted the co-opera- tion of certain prominent Egyptians and foreigners at Alexandria with a view to the formation of an association to promote better understanding between Egypt and local foreign residents of all classes. His intention is to extend the proposed organisation to Cairo and other principal towns. 5. New session of Arab League Council was inaugurated on 30th October and adjourned until 18th November after approving the agenda which, according to Bourse Egyptienne, is to include a discussion on the round table conference in London. This newspaper also reports the signature of a cultural pact between States members of the league at meeting of 30th October. [83—23] ; COPYRIGHT OF, THE PUBLIC REpORD OFFICE, LONDON I I I I I I I I I I 2 6. According to a report stated to have emanated from the Palace, Under- secretary of State for the Interior has been instructed by the Palace to inform the ex-Mufti that he can no longer regard himself as a guest of King Farouk under His Majesty's special protection! Report adds that the Ministry of the Interior were further told that they might take any steps regarding the ex-Mufti which they considered suitable, and that they have already taken unspecified action with regard to the two visitors who had come to discuss politics with the ex-Mufti. This report has not yet been confirmed with the Ministry of the Interior. [Copy sent to Lord Stansgate.] THIS DOCUMENT IS THE PROPERTY OF HIS BRITANNIC MAJESTY'S GOVERNMENT EGYPT AND SUDAN. July 13, 1946. CONFIDENTIAL. ARCHIVES SECTION 1. Copy No. §2 Sir R. I. Campbell to Mr. Bevin.—(Received 13th July.) (No. 1233.) (Telegraphic.)' Cairo, 12th July, 1946. WEEKLY appreciation. Opposition press has endeavoured to belittle advantage to Egypt of return of Lord Stansgate and the resumption of negotiations by suggesting that this indicates that Sidki Pasha has given way to British demands regarding a Joint Defence Board which these newspapers continue to represent as a British device to maintain a protectorate not only over Egypt but over the whole of the Middle East. Makram's organ likewise continues to attack the Defence Board on similar lines, and violence of his campaign not only against the Board, but against Sidki Pasha himself has strengthened the belief in collusion between him and the Wafd. King Farouk told His Majesty's Ambassador that he had authorised Sidki Pasha to tell the Egyptian delegation that His Majesty favoured Defence Board. King Farouk, moreover, according to a report from a reliable source, instructed Heikal to convey to Makram His Majesty's displeasure at Makram's attitude towards the treaty negotiations. Nevertheless, Makram shows no sign of being influenced by His Majesty's .intimations. 2. There has been serious conflict between the Wafdists and Moslem brethren on the occasion of a visit of the leader of the latter to Cairo, involving two persons killed and a number of casualties. Numerous arrests were made. Wafdist news- papers seized the opportunity to demand the dissolution of Moslem Brethren's para-military organisation. The Moslem Brethren, although they killed one Wafdist, got much the worst of the conflict, which showed that the Wafd have retained their power in this old Wafdist stronghold, and that the Moslem Brethren are much weaker than the Wafd there. 3. Union of students and other youth organisations, largely Wafdist, announced their intention of observing a day of mourning on the llth July (see paragraph 5 of my telegram 1197), anniversary of beginning of British occupa- tion. Two Wafdist newspapers and Makram's organ was confiscated for publishing appeals in favour of a general strike on this occasion. Government announcement indicated that such a strike would not be permitted. According to reports so far received everything passed off without disturbances : Govern- ment are reported to have kept many mischief-makers under detention. 4. Government engineers started a partial strike (see paragraph 8 of my telegram 1197) which they threatened to extend if their demands were not granted. They have, however, now gone back to work apparently on the under- standing that their demands would receive sympathetic consideration. 5. Government has submitted to Parliament a Bill for making strikes of officials illegal (see paragraph 8 of my telegram 1197). Wafdist press have argued that the proper solution of this question is to improve the lot of officials rather than to pass " Fascist legislation. 6. Unemployment continues to preoccupy the Government who, in a debate in Chamber of Deputies maintained that registered unemployed number only 100,000 and that 5,000 of these have been re-employed, the rest haying drifted back to their villages. This statement appears to be optimistic. Strike troubles continue and Minister for Social Affairs has accused foreigners, including the Russians, Czechs and Poles, of being involved in the instigation of recent strikes. 7. The 10th July, evening, a bomb was thrown from a motor car at British soldiers on Kasr El-Mil bridge, wounding eight, one seriously; On the same evening a bomb was thrown at British military vehicle in Alexandria, wounding one British petty officer and one Yugoslav. 8. The press has contained numerous articles deploring Egypt's non-invita- tion to the Peace Conference. Minister for Foreign Affairs stated to journalists that Great Britain had supported the Egyptian claim to participate. 9. The Government have begun to take action against Communist elements [79—127] ' \ COPYRIGHT OF THE PUBLIC RECORD OFFICE, LONDON and others accused of subversive action. Numerous house searches and arrests have been made. At least two important journalists have been arrested. Several Wafdist and other newspapers have been indefinitely suspended. In a declaration to the press Sidki Pasha states that action for dissolution of Communist associa- tions, confiscation of their publications and arrest of their leaders has been undertaken in conformity with the Law and constitution in order to counteract the activities designed to disturb security and provoke revolution. He states that these subversive elements have entered into contact with certain political groups who consider that these subversive activities should form part of their programme. No doubt this reference is mainly to Wafd. 10. The press has published summaries of notes of Arab League to His Majesty's Government arid United States Government regarding Anglo-American Commission's report on Palestine. So far there has been no noticeable reaction. J^ W?HIS DOCUMENT IS THE PROPERTY OF HIS BRITANNIC MAJESTY'S GOVERNMENT ~1 EGYPT AND SUDAN. June 28, 1946. CONFIDENTIAL. SECTION 1. Copy No. ()2 Sir R. I. Campbell to Mr. Bevin.—(Received 28th. June.) (No. 1157.) (Telegraphic.) Cairo, 28th June, 1946. WEEKLY appreciation. Replying to journalists, Sidki Pasha has stated that joint organism which we have proposed should be set up to co-ordinate defence measures will not amount to more than a joint consultative commission to study questions relating to the treaty; he continued that term " defence" was inappropriate in this connexion. Sidki Pasha also pointed out that His Majesty's Government had accepted Egyptian thesis according to which British troops would only return to Egypt in the event of actual war. Sidki Pasha's reference to joint committee has aroused sharp criticisms in Wafdist press which sees in this arrangement a British design to establish British hegemony in regional defence of the Middle East. Makram's newspaper Kutla has also attacked proposal as a step consti- tuting an " unveiled protectorate," and warning Egyptians against being deceived by assurances that committee would be merely consultative. An important state- ment in A'hrarti by Ali Shamsi Pasha emphasising disadvantages to Egypt of further delay in resuming negotiations between the two delegations, reflects a growing concern on this point. An allusion by Shamsi Pasha to desirability of arranging the- matter by common agreement is interpreted according to agent in touch with the Palace as referring to need for agreement among Egyptians themselves and hence as an expression of hope that a coalition Government might be formed with participation of the Wafd. This remark is reported to have perturbed Sidki Pasha. Shamsi Pasha is reported to have had discussions with the Palace some two weeks ago on these lines but without result. There have been rumours during the past weeks .that Ali Maher and Makram Pasha were contemplating resignation from treaty delegation. 2. Labour situation continues to cause grave anxiety. The trouble at Shouba al Kheima has ended in a lock-out of the workers (see paragraph 5 of my telegram No. 1138) in view of their refusal to sign an undertaking to respect : i) the regulations of the factory. A minor demonstration of unemployed .-it Alexandria on the 20th June was dispersed by the police without serious inci- dent. Suez Canal workers staged a two-hour strike on the ,25th June and threatened to strike again on the 29th June if their demands for improved conditions are not conceded meanwhile. The executive committee of Workers' Syndicates Congress had decided to call a general strike on the 25th June in protest against the Government's allegedly repressive and negligent policy towards the workers, but this decision was cancelled after the Government had announced the formation of a joint committee of officials, industrialists and workers under the presidency of the Minister of Social Affairs to examine the workers' complaints and to propose a general basis for conditions of work. A number of strike ringleaders were arrested. The Wafdist newspaper Dalayh was confiscated for reporting above-mentioned decision of the Workers' Syndi- cates and also for publishing prominently a eulogy of Stalin. 3. Various technical grievances about prospects of promotion and unfavourable grading as compared with other Government officials have led to a strike of soine two or three thousand primary and secondary school teachers, who are refusing to correct examination papers. Efforts made by the Govern- ment to induce teachers to call off the strike have failed and considerable sympathy with their case was expressed in the Chamber of Deputies on the 26th June. Strikes in other branches of officialdom are feared. Sidki Pasha is being reproached with neglecting to deal with these serious internal problems owing to absorption in treaty negotiations. He has been much upset up an article in Ahram in that sense. 4. Revised budget has been presented to Chamber of Deputies. A notable feature is a decision to perpetuate promotions of Government officials provided [79—19] THIS DOCUMENT IS THE PROPERTY OP HIS BRITANNIC MAJESTY'S GOVERNMENT EGYPT AND SUDAN. June 22, 1946. CONFIDENTIAL. SECTION 1. ARCHIVED Copy No. U 1 •Sir R. 1. Campbell to Mr. Bemn.—(Receiced 2'2nd June.) (No. 1128.) . (Telegraphic.) Cairo, 2'2ud June, 1946. WEEKLY appreciation. A certain apathy regarding the negotiations has become apparent amongst the general public. The Egyptians are a volatile people and not easily capable of sustained interest in anything; moreover, the problems of unemployment and the Hugh cost of living are worrying the people much more than Nationalist claims. There seems to be a tendency away from nationalism towards economic agitation However, the press continues to try to whip up the enthusiasm of the public by continuously anti-British articles of an impropriety which is shocking and astonishing the more moderate Egyptian elements and foreign observers Announcement of the resumption of negotiations will no doubt help tne politicians to stimulate public interest in Nationalist issue. Anyhow they will still have little difficulty in exciting [group undecypherableJs to violent reaction to anti- Britain issue, and thus deflecting against us the agitation arising out of anti Government, anti-capitalist discontent. At the same time it appears at th» moment that, among the genuine workers at any rate, feeling is not anti-British for they are beginning to regret our progressive departure. ' 2. It is perhaps partly due to this apathy that Bludan Conference seems to have aroused very moderate interest in Egypt. 8. Labour unrest continues and there nave been hunger strikes of the labourers, one of which at Alexandria has been successful in securing the improved conditions of employment demanded. Situation in Shoubra Kheima remains precarious. A number of workmen refused to sign an undertaking regarding I group undecypherable] the factories, fearing that sucih an undertaking had some relationship with their right to work or their salaries. Government has asked proprietors not to dismiss workmen or to decrease their salaries except by mutual consent of the two parties or the Government, or of the Committee of Concilia- tion. In exchange the Government has asked the workmen to resume work promptly and to sign the required undertaking. 4. With reference to paragraph 8 of my telegram No. 1084, telegraph operators went on strike but have been induced by the Government to return' to work. 5. Government has issued a very optimistic communique regarding tlio i unemployed, asserting that only recognised Nationalist workers discliar»ed°from I institutions should be unemployed, that most of the others had found work, some I having returned to their original jobs and others having found work i'n" (he provinces. The communique adds that the Government is takin"1 every possih! • action by the governmental public utility projects and by negotiations with tSr employers to obtain work for the unemployed. Meanwhile free meals are beioc offered to the unemployed and their families. ** 6. With reference to paragraph 5 of my telegram No. 1084, Sidki Pwha in reply to a question of Serag-ed-Din in the Senate, repeated his denial that he had apologised to us for the Alexandria incidents, and stated that he had merely said to Hjs Majesty's Minister tKat these incidents were regrettable 7. Reports have been received of the distribution of revolutionary pamphlets in Shoubra and of an anti-British and anti-monarchy pamphlet in Assuan district 8. With reference to paragraph 9 of my telegram No. 1084, students at Alexandria University have been suspended until [group undecypherablel mainlv owing to the abstention of a large number of students. This abstention 'was due partly to the refusal of the students to pay the university feea, and partly to solidarity with comrades imprisoned or dismissed in connexion with the disorders which brought about the original closure of the university. / 9. The Prime Minister made a last-minute attempt to prevent a break- down of negotiations between Patriarchate and Ethiopian delegates (see para- graph 13 of my telegram No. 1084), and proposed- a meeting of Coptic notables [78—143] . with a view to promoting an understanding between the two parties. Patriar- chate, however, refused to assent to this meeting, on the grounds that such a meeting was not competent to decide questions of Canon Law, which were within the sole competence of Holy Synod. The Prime Minister issued a communique giving details of this and of the Government's intervention, and expressing regret at rupture. Terms of the communique are such as to suggest that many Coptic notables were in favour of concessions and in opposition to Patriarchate's intransigent attitude. Saba Habashi Pasha, Coptic Minister of Commerce, expressed to me privately the view that the Patriarch was unnecessarily and sacrilegiously legalistic. 10. Sudanese delegation gave a dinner party on tihe 16th June, which was attended by Ali Maher,. Heikal, Makram Ebeid, Sabri Abu Allam and other notables. Azhari made a speech on thoroughly pro-Egyptian lines, i.e., total evacuation of Egypt and unity of the Nile Valley under one crown, with one army and an internal administration by the Sudanese. Speech was largely devoted to a violent and scurrilous attack on, British administration generally. 11. A civil aviation agreement has been signed between Egypt and the United States incorporating tlhe principles of the Bermuda Agreement. This civil aviation agreement was linked up with the hand-over, free of charge, to the Egyptians on a non-discrimination basis of American interest in the Payne field, together with the buildings and equipment. The United States array air force have the right to use Payne field for six months, with the option of a longer period by separate agreement. The agreement contemplates the continued employ- ment of American experts in uniform during this time in order to operate airfield and instruct Egyptians to replace them. Customs, passport and quarantine officials are to be installed by the Egyptian Government. 12. There has been a sudden resumption of activity on the Bourse, where there had been complete stagnation owing to the fixing of minimum prices. There was an appreciable rise in the prices of most Egyptian shares. This development is attributed to the fact that after any long suspension of Bourse operations many people are eventually compelled to buy in order to invest their money somehow. This rise appears for the moment to have stopped. 13. There are indications that Sidki Pasha is beginning to take action against the elements of disorder. However, the present indications are that his activity is only being directed against the Wafd and Communists, not, as yet, against murder gangs (members of which are drawn from parties supporting the present regime), Young Egyptian or Moslem Brothers, though he gave me to understand recently that he intended to act against the last-named. The editors of Wafdist papers are continually being summoned by Sidki Pasha to be interrogated regarding the articles alleged to be subversive. 14. Ex-Mufti of Jerusalem arrived in Cairo and went to the Palace to seek asylum. The royal communique announced this, adding that His Majesty deigned to receive him. COPYRIGHT OF, THE PUBLIC RtpOBO OFFICE. LONDON Reference:- (r>» THIS DOCUMENT IS THE PROPERTY OF HIS BRITANNIC MAJESTY'S GOVERNMENT EGYPT AND SUDAN. August 9, 1946. CONFIDENTIAL. ARCHIVES SECTION 1. Copy Nog 0 Sir R. Campbell to Mr. Bevin.—(Received Wi August.} (No. 1351.) (Telegraphic.) Cairo, Qtk August, 1946. WEEKLY appreciation. Publication of fairly close version of Egyptian delegation's note rejecting proposed British agreements of Egyptian draft treaty has conveyed the impression that negotiations are on the verge of a breakdown. A Wafdist organ insinuates that Sidky Pasha, having failed through his weakness towards us and his lack of popular support to put the Egyptian case strongly enough across the British, is trying by this note to assume a heroic pose in order to retrieve his compromised position, which is further weakened by Saadist and Liberal intrigues to evict him from the premiership. The press has freely analysed points on which there are divergences of view between the two dele- gations, and has universally emphasised that Egyptians will make no further concessions. Egyptian public 'generally has become very defiant. Both the press and public seem to envisage a reference to U.N.O. and even denunciation of 1936 treaty as consequences of breakdown of negotiations. Sidky Pasha, in conversation with press representatives, emphatically denied reports of a Cabinet crisis and his replacement by another Prime Minister. [80—83] jftfl^1 . »*.r*« -' ,<"v j^*,1 • frl ^, Jct Si "X^J^ 4^T*h7 "w^ ! >"* , * ^^'fWW x# * "' /•-,i;ts^;"*T?, ' VU «WJ */ * vMJdMWt» V .•':>(T^>Sfc4^f* COPYRIGHT OF THE PUBLIC RECORD OFFICE, LONDON 2. Parliament was prorogued without passing the Bill to govern the application of article 15 of the Constitution (see paragraph 7 of my telegram No. 1309) and also Bill to expand 98 of penal code in order to give the Govern- ment more powers to deal with Communist agitation. It is therefore thought likely that, in the absence of further evidence, Communist suspects under arrest cannot be detained much longer. ; 3. Another less serious clash occurred between the Moslem Brethren and Wafdist brigades in Cairo, the provocation apparently having come from the latter. 4. A by-election in Giza, for which Sidky Pasha's stumbling-block, Mahmoud Rashid, is standing as Saadist candidate, has ledl to a clash between the latter and security authorities. Accusations of administrative interference in favour of Mahmoud Rashid are being made and this election campaign may make further bad blood between the Saadists and Sidky Pasha. 5. King Farouk has conveyed a message of thanks to Alexandrian police commandant and police for their devotion to duty during the recent period. It is not clear whether reference is to the police action against assailants of our troops or against the Communists. 6. Sidky Pasha has issued a denial to the effect that he has received further representations from us regarding the ex-Mufti and that the ex-Mufti is indulging in political activities. Both these statements are incorrect. Further representations have been made to Sidky Pasha about the visits of politicians to the Mufti, who is certainly playing a role behind the scenes, particularly in connexion with the arrival in Cairo of a delegation of the Higher Arab Committee and with the present meeting in Alexandria of the Foreign Ministers of Arab States to discuss the Palestine question. COPYRIGHT OF, THE PUBLIC RECORD OFFICE, LONDON I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I THIS DOCUMENT IS THB PROPERTY OP HIS BRITANNIC MAJESTY'S GOVERNMENT EGYPT AND SUDAN. August 16, 1946. CONFIDENTIAL. SECTION 1. fel- Copy No. (j 2 Sir R. Campbell to Mr. Bevin.—(Received 16th August.) (No. 1371.) (Telegraphic.) Cairo, IQth August, 1946. WEEKLY appreciation. Delay in tlhe British answer to the Egyptian delegation's note has emphasised the feeling that negotiations are on the verge of a breakdown^ but the sensa- tional arrival of Amr has aroused some hopeful expectation. The Makramite bloc has issued formal resolutions insisting on evacuation within one year and on the unity of Nile Valley under the Egyptian Crown, protesting against Defence Board and Egyptian armed participation in war outside Egyptian terri- tory, and urging, in the event of rupture, denunciation of 1936 Treaty and reference to U.N.O. or Security Council, accompanied and, if necessary, followed by national struggle. These resolutions were published in Waf dist official organ. Rapproche- ment between Makramite and the Wafd has been further emphasised by the visit of Wafdist youths to Makramite club. 2. Hoisting of Egyptian flag on the Citadel was made the occasion of an elaborate ceremony attended by King Farouk and glorifying the present dynasty and Egyptian army. The Opposition and other elements have been inclined to [80-439] t'V *'•;"<%' I®! i.Sl&WJR liWf »Wf 1* -'sLife- iilftff ^HSttewsfii '^'i|;4'» -tf^-dtil|'!4*|«|ll '' j '!>>' . i V, «. u yr**hA* - ,i1«»«IP*P?;«i«*»P . ^:«1, ' V/ *> »i*;,IWsi5i|?i Rh^rsOttlB ^^\ COPYRIGHT OF, THE PUBLIC RECORD OFFICE, LONDON i i i I i i i I I I I I I I I I I ! regard the handing over of the Citadel as a gesture of little value, and even intended to throw dust in Egyptian eyes while Great Britain delays general evacuation. 3. Official circles have expressed their satisfaction that Egypt is to be permitted to state her views at the Peace Conference, and have given the credit to us for this. 4. Conference of Arab Foreign Ministers has taken place in a sober and not unfriendly atmosphere. Conference agreed to acceptance of His Majesty's Government's invitation to proceed to London for closing conversations, subject only to Bludan decisions. 5. 'Ahmed Hussein, leader of the Young Egypt Party, has been released on 20 Egyptian pound's bail. There have been further releases of Communists arrested. 6. Much concern has been felt in foreign communities by the publication of Egyptian proposals to modify the status of foreigners as regards residence. Sidki Pasha has made a declaration to the effect that only undesirables would be affected. 7. Extraordinary height of the Nile floods has caused universal alarm, and it is feared that the basin areas in Upper Egypt may lhave to be opened^ with the consequent loss of important millet crop. 8. With reference to paragraph 4 of my telegram No. 1351; Mahmoud Rashid has been elected by a huge majority. According to tKe Director-General of Public Security, this election has provoked considerable resentment on the part of Nokraslhi against Sidki Pasha. - \ THIS DOCUMENT IS THE PROPERTY OP HIS BRITANNIC MAJESTY'S GOVERNMENT EGYPT AND SUDAN. July 20, 1946. CONFIDENTIAL. SECTION 1. Copy No. 62 Sir R. /. Campbell to Mr. Bevin.—(Received 2Qth July.) (No. 1268.) (Telegraphic.) Cairo, l§th July, 1946. WEEKLY appreciation. Some impatience is being evinced by the politically-minded Egyptian public at the pause in negotiations pending reply from London on the results of discussions between Sidki Pasha and Lord Stansgate on resumption of negotia- tions. There has been much further criticism in the press of a joint defence board on the familiar groun^tthat it amounts to a veiled British protectorate. Makram has played a har^esPpart in these attacks and, in a statement to the A hram, deprecated the secrefcy of the negotiations and recommended publication of the British-Egyptian text so that the public might know the real facts. This statement was based on an interview with Egyptian Minister for Foreign Affairs emphasising consultative nature of the board. Sidki Pasha, in a statement to the Senate, similarly emphasised consulta- tive nature of the board. 2. Publication in The Times of a version of the Egyptian counter-draft has provoked criticism in the press to the effect that it was unfair to keep the Egyptian public uninformed while the British public was being furnished with such information. 3. Egyptian Minister for Foreign Affairs made a rather ambiguous statement to the effect that the Sudan question would be discussed after signature of the treaty, but he presumably meant that such a discussion would be on basis of a protocol included in the treaty. Makram and the Opposition press came out with statements to the effect that the questions of Egypt and Sudan could not be dissociated as the two countries formed an indivisible whole. 4. The parquet have imposed a ban on publication of news about the investigations connected with the arrest of numerous persons on ground of Communist activities. The Wafd have strongly criticised the violation of this ban by Akhrot al Yom, which published detailed version of Communist activities, including reference to alleged contacts between Wafdist elements and Com- munist agents. Suppression of newspapers in this connexion has also been strongly criticised by the Makram organ. Sidki Pasha, in reply to a question, stated to the press that Wafd was not connected with the Communist movement, but he added that Waafd Al Misri and its editor were. 5. In a motion in 'the Senate Sabri Abu Alam Pasha denounced the suppression of newspapers. He maintained that the Wafd had no connexion with Communists, though it might be said to have a social complexion. Sidki Pasha, in reply, made a long statement justifying the anti-Communist drive on the grounds that it was directed against a concerted movement to provoke revolution and to overthrow existing social order. He maintained that the revolutionary organisations were working through the channel of the Wafdist newspaper Waafd AI Misri; some of those arrested have already been released. 6. Minister of Public Affairs has denied the statement attributed to him 'regarding foreign investigation of the recent strikes (see paragraph 6 of my telegram No. 1233). 7. Threatened police strike did not materialise, but, according to press, police constables are now threatening to strike on the 25th July. Labour strikes continue in Alexandria. 8. State of public security has become bad in Girga Province, where there have been kidnappings by armed gangs. Director-General of Public Security was sent by the Prime Minister to Girga to investigate. 9. During the week under review there have been several cases of bomb- throwing at British military in Alexandria. In the las,t case several bombs were thrown into a British Services Club during a dance with the result that nearly thirty British military personnel were injured. Strong representations have been made to the Prime Minister on the subject. [79—161] COPYRIGHT OF THE PUBLIC RECORD OFFICE, LOMOOM 10. The press announce that a youth association on semi-Fascist lines is to be organised in schools with the approval of Minister of Education. Its activities include military training and its basis and purposes are strongly Eoyalist. It is to be called! " The Torch-bearers," this name being adopted from torch-bearing race organised recently on the occasion of King Farouk's birthday. \THIS DOCUMENT IS THE PROPERTY OF HIS BRITANNIC MAJESTY'S GOVERNMENT EGYPT AND SUDAN. July 28, 1946. CONFIDENTIAL. SECTION 1. Copy No. g 2 Sir R. /. Campbell to Mr. Bevin.—(Received 2Sth July.) (No. 1309.) (Telegraphic.) Cairo, 28th July, 1946. WEEKLY appreciation. Egyptian press and public are showing increasing anxiety at the continued absence of any announcement indicating that His Majesty's Government have communicated any definite reply to the Egyptian proposals. The joint defence board proposal has been subjected to- further criticism in the press, particularly in Makramite and Wafdist newspapers. There is much speculation as regards possible concessions at both sides in order to come to terms with regard to the period required for evacuation. In an interview with Fikry Abaza, editor of weekly Mussawwar, Sidki Pasha is reported to have stated that present Chamber of Deputies has maintained a sublime attitude towards Egyptian cause and that experience has convinced him that it should not be dissolved without good reason. This statement, if correctly reported, evidently suggests that Sidki Pasha is inclined to be against parliamentary elections before the treaty' is ratified. Previously Sidki Pasha had made an ambiguous statement which indicated that he had an open mind on the subject. ' •••(,'• f ^^<;(.,> *(. ^ Jt^-^/ 2. In the above-mentioned interview Sidki Pasha iS-also stated>to4iave remarked that the Governor-General of the Sudan has {fepeatejH the ^kampfe of his proper authority and that negotiations with regarcr-to-the Sudan-~m>uldi be embarked upon as soon as negotiations regarding the claims of Egypt were completed. 3. Generally, the press and public have become more pessimistic about the negotiations. 4. The Egyptian security authorities, including Sidki Pasha himself, are greatly elated by the arrests of a number of young Egyptian Party members, mostly youths in their twenties, in connexion with the most recent bomb incident referred to in paragraph 9 of weekly appreciation telegram No. 1268. The Parquet is examining documents seized at the headquarters of young Egyptian Party, whose leader, Ahmed Egyptian, is one of those under 'arrest. Italian hand grenades of type used in that incident are reported by D.S.O. to have been found at the houses of certain of those under arrest. According to D.G.P.S. and D.S.O., present indications are that these arrests do not constitute a "frame-up," but are apparently direct consequence of a denunciation made by a youth reported to be the brother of a member of the gang. D.S.O. consider Sidki Pasha's offer of a £5,000 reward for information leading to the conviction of the culprits was a potent factor in these developments. It is not yet possible to determine whether there is a direct link between these young Egyptian Party terrorists and gang responsible for Aman Osman's murder and attacks on British military personnel in Cairo. 5. As a result of representations by Mixed Court, nearly all non-Egyptians detained in connexion with anti-Communist drive are reported to have been released from custody. 6. In his interview with Mussawwar, Sidki Pasha is reported to have stated that anti-Communist campaign was based on an essentially Egyptian policy and not at any foreign instance and that campaign had no connexion with the question of the treaty negotiations. In reply to a question whether this campaign would have repercussions on the relations between Egypt and Russia, Sidki Pasha is stated to have replied! that these relations would in no way be affected arid that the Soviet Government did not desire Communist propaganda to be made in its name in Egypt. 7.,, With reference to paragraph 5 of my telegram No. 1268(?), there was an unexpected development in the resumption of Senate's debate at'Sabri Abu Alam Pasha's motion, when the President of the Senate intervened with a state- ment, the gist of which was that in the absence of a law governing application [79—197] / COPYRIGHT OF THE PUBLIC RECORD OFFICE, LONDON of article 15 of Constitution, the Government bad no power to suppress news- papers by administrative action. Sidki Pasha was obviously considerably taken aback by this ruling, but after a discussion with Heikal next day he announced in the Senate that tne Government would go ahead with promulgation of required legislation. Heikal accepted this undertaking. According to agent in touch with the Palace, Heikal's intervention in a sense unfavourable to the Govern- ment is part of a plot which Heikal has been hatching lately with Sabri Abu Alam to embarrass or discredit Sidki Pasha, hoping thereby to replace him as Prime Minister with Wafdist support. This informant also states that King Farouk strongly disapproved of Heikal's action in the Senate, but that it may be expected that Heikal will continue to intrigue against Sidki Pasha in order to further his reported ambition to supplant him. This incident coming after Liberal obstruction in Parliament of Government legislative proposals is taken by the press to indicate recommencement of inter-party conflict witnin the present regime. 8. According to agent, Sidki Pasha is now prepared, as a result of his discussion with Heikal, to issue a permit for the publication of a Wafdist news- paper to replace suppressed Wafd al Misri. This, taken in conjunction with Sabri Abu Alain's agreement expressed in the Senate with compromise indicated in paragraph 6 above, would seem to indicate the possiblity of further intrigues of Liberals with Wafd. .. 9. Press reports that an application by Nahas Pasha to hold a three days' Wafdist congress beginning the 26th August (anniversary of Zaghloul's death) has been refused by competent authorities. 10. Parliament has been prorogued for summer recess from the 25th July. 11. Competent court has rejected an appeal by those still under arrest in connexion with Aman Osman's murder against their continued detention. 12. Police constables who threatened to strike on the 25th July have now decided to give the Government one month to consider their demands. 13. The explosion at King David Hotel, Jerusalem, has greatly shocked Egyptians arid has inspired press comment criticising British administration in Palestine and urging that British mandate must be ended. A further typical comment is that Great Britain is not justified in criticising bomb-throwing in Egypt when sp many worse outrages occur in British-administered territory. THIS DOCUMENT IS THE PROPERTY OP HIS BRITANNIC MAJESTY'S GOVERNMENT EGYPT AND SUDAN November 22, 1946 CONFIDENTIAL SECTION 1 Copy-No. Mr. Bowker to Mr. Bevin. (Receined (2l2'nd November) (No. 1734) ** (Telegraphic) Cairo, %2nd November, 1946 WEEKLY appreciation. The period of confused suspense has been prolonged by adjournment of Egyptian delegation's discussion of Bevin-Sidky Pasha proposals owing to indecision of Liberal Party, and centre of gravity has momentarily shifted to Parliament where an interpellation has been raised by a Saadist on the subjects of the treaty negotiations. This delay is being utilised by opponents of the treaty to marshal their forces in Parliament and outside. According to press reports seventeen Opposition Deputies of different parties, and including one Independent, met on 21st November at the Makramite Club and decided to oppose Bevin-Sidky Pasha proposals in Parliament. A majority of Liberal Party is expected to support these proposals, though with certain important reservations, and only the Saadist Party is understood to be unreservedly in favour thereof. It is therefore anticipated at the moment that the Government will seek and obtain a vote of confidence when Saadist interpellation is debated in the Chamber on 26th November. The position in the Senate, however, is much less favourable in view of Wafdist representation, amounting to approxi- mately one-third, and a similar proportion of private Independents whose attitude cannot be predicted. Whether or not the Saadist Deputy's interpellation was prearranged with the Government, it is reasonably certain that Sidky Pasha had already made up his mind that he could push ahead with parliamentary backing regardless of the delegation's eventual decision. The opposing members of the Delegation are greatly incensed by these tactics, and are reported to be considering whether delegation should be summoned to meet before 26th November (even if riot summoned by Sidky Pasha), or whether they themselves should issue a statement explaining their inability to accept Bevin-Sidky Pasha proposals. The disquieting possibilities of this very delicate situation are further com- plicated by the fact that Sidky Pasha's explanatory note to the Egyptian delega- tion is in certain important respects, notably as regards Sudan protocol, at variance with Mr. Bevin's understanding of agreement reached in London. 2. Outside Parliament various opposition elements are working energetically to organise forces of discontent against present Government's treaty policy, and also against maintenance of present regime. The opening of schools and universities was marked by demonstrations in Cairo on 16th November and two succeeding days, which appear to have been handled with firmness and discretion by security authorities. Although there have been no further incidents since 18th November it is reliably reported that the Students Executive Committee will meet at Giza on 23rd November to decide on their further course of action, and present lull can therefore only be regarded as temporary. Minister of Educa- tion broadcast a message to the students on 15th November urging them to resume their studies as a patriotic duty, adding a warning against being misled by interested parties, and he appealed to teachers and parents to co-operate. Nevertheless, students who assembled at Cairo University on 16th November decided to form a national front of students of the Nile Valley to demand complete independence and democratic rule for the . Nile Valley. This may be part of a movement called Nile Valley Youth Eront which has recently been organised amongst younger adherents of various opposition parties and organisa- tions, with the reported encouragement of Saleh Harb Pasha (the president of Young Men's Moslem Association) and other anti-British and anti-Sidky political elements, with the object of co-ordinating propaganda against present regime and in favour of political unity. A pamphlet, over signature of Saleh Harb Pasha, denouncing British policy in Egypt and Egyptian army in violent terms was distributed by members of Young Men's Moslem Association on 15th November [83—170] COPYRIGHT OF THE PUBLIC RECORD OFFICE, LONDON '•/•r.nc.:- -LL after prayers. 'Another pamphlet, entitled " Charter for National Front of all Students of the Nile Valley," issued by Nile Valley Youth Front referred to above, contains inflammatory anti-British material, 3. In accordance with article 41 of Constitution twenty-six decree-laws promulgated during the recess were submitted on 18th November. Wafdist leader of the Opposition is reported to have contested the constitutional validity of certain of these measures, notably those relating to repression of strikes and of subversive activities. Opposition leader pointed out that it was unconstitutional to enforce decree-laws when draft laws containing identical stipulations were awaiting parliamentary approval. Matter was referred to Committee for Constitutional Questions. 4. With reference to paragraph 7 of my telegram No. 1698 it is now reported in the press that Egyptian Labour Party's candidate for vacant Senate [group undecypherable] is Abdel Aziz Radwan Pasha, a wealthy landowner and industrialist who began life as a railway porter. 5. On 16th November police raided the private house of a university professor who was holding a tea-party and, according to D.S.O., they took into custody a number of students and working-class individuals who were suspected of Communist activity. No incriminating evidence was found and arrested persons were released three days later. 6. Arab League Council's session, which was adjourned on 30th October, was resumed on 18th November. In a communique issued on 18th November Council called upon Arab States to recognise independence of Indonesia. The Ahram reports that, in reply to a question from reporter, the heads of Arab delegations to League Council expressed their readiness to stand by Egypt if she required assistance. 7. After attending his wife's funeral on 19th November Sidky Pasha is again confined to his room. THIS DOCUMENT IS THE PROPERTY OF HIS BRITANNIC MAJESTY'S GOYERNMEHT * EGYPT AND SUDAN. June 7, 1946. CONFIDENTIAL. SECTION i. Copy No. 61 Sir R. I. Campbell to Mr. Bevin.—(Received 7th June.) (No. 1038.) (Telegraphic.) Cairo, 1th June, 1946. WEEKLY appreciation. ^ The week has been full of rumours of the possible fall of the Cabinet. The trouble arose out of the statement in the Senate on the 27th May regarding the negotiations. When asked whether this statement was approved by the Egyptian delegation or Cabinet, he replied it was a personal statement or his own and had to admit that neither the Cabinet nor the delegation had seen it beforehand. This independent action of his annoyed both' the delegation and his Cabinet, particularly the Liberals and, of course, Makram Ebeid. It is reported that Hefni Mahmoud, who apparently provoked the above question, wished to resign but was deterred from doing so by tJhe Palace. Makram Ebeid in his newspaper attacked Sidki Pasha for acting on his own without consulting anyone. Sidki Pasha was apparently very annoyed, as he had hoped to be acclaimed by the Senate as a popular hero. It seems probable that the Palace intervened to prevent the break up of the Cabinet. 2. The Committee for Foreign Affairs presented its report to the Senate on Sidki Pasha's statement, and when the discussion showed signs of going into details of the explanations which Sidki Pasha had furnished confidentially to the Attorney, Sidki Pasha asked that the discussion should continue in camera. After the secret sitting was over the motion adopted by the Senate was given publicly—'this motion approved the delegation's attitude, particularly its adherence to evacuate Nile Valley. According to the report from well-informed source Sidki Pasha's statement in the secret Senate was so extremist that it was (heartily approved by Hapez, Ramadan, Wafdist leader, and Wafd as a body could not very well vote against him. The majority of them therefore abstained from voting—-Sidki Pasha obtained a majority of eighty-five against fifteen (Wafdists). Sidki Pasha is reported to have informed the Senate of our draft treaty and of the Egyptian one, to have made it clear that he would stand on the Egyptian draft treaty and would not take any action to dissociate the Sudan from the present negotiations. The Senator confidentially reported to the embassy that Wafd had actually approved the treaty position made by Sidki Pasha, but not the resolution because it expressed confidence in Sidki Pasha and the Egyptian delegation. 3. Sidki Pasha's handling of this question in the Senate was no doubt dictated by his desire to veil the popularity of the hero, but it must really seem now to make difficult any concessions by the Egyptian delegation. 4. Departure of Lord Stansgate has been exploited by the Opposition to demonstrate that negotiations are virtually broken off. The Government supporters were depressed by this departure, but on the whole have been able to represent it as favourable to the Egyptian cause in that Lord Stansgate, they insinuate, is going back to persuade London to yield to the Egyptian demands. General impression appears to be that sooner tnan face the inconvenience of a rupture Great Britain will yield to Egyptian claims. If, however, Lord Stans- gate's return is much delayed there seems considerable likelihood that internal situation must deteriorate. 5. Moslem Brothers have published a resolution of General Assembly urginr* the Government to break off negotiations and to annul the treaty of 1936. 6. Weekly Itmein has published a statement made by Hafez Afifi opposing the [group undecypherable] of the Egyptian cause to secure safeguard ancl favouring an Anglo-Egyptian alliance. 7. Egyptian Prime Minister has written to the Governor-General of the Sudan protesting against the alleged formulation of proposals for a legislative council without consulting the Egyptian Government. 8. There has been much labour'unrest owing to a renewal of the strike of textile workers at Shubraal Kheima and at Alexandria, and by workers thrown out of employment by the closing down of Allied military establishments. *A [78—51] . ' . COPYRIGHT OF THE PUBLIC RECORD OFFICE, LONDON 8 6 meeting of competent Ministers and employers of labour took place at Alexandria with a view to devising measures to deal with unemployment. Unemployed are being given one free meal a day, but are naturally not content with this. Shubraal strike is, however, reported to have been settled and a number of ringleaders arrested. The trial of trade unionists arrested in connexion with Shubraa'l strike last December, and tried on a charge of publishing seditious articles (see rny despatch No. 82), has ended with acquittal of Mudarri and the imposition of a slight fine on one of the accused and of three months' imprisonment with hard labour on another. 9. '' National Committee of Students and Workers" has been urging a general strike on the 8th June as a protest against the victory parade in London. Young Egyptian party and Moslem Brothers have been joining in this agitation, and violent anti-British speeches were made at a meeting of Moslem Brothers at Alexandria which ended in a number of arrests by police. Alexandria Unirersity was to have reopened the 8th June, but the opening has now been postponed until the 10th June in view of this development. The Government are taking precautionary measures. The Director-General of Public Security thinivs there will be no trouble in Cairo but is not so sure of Alexandria. The Director-General of Public Security thinks there are Eussian and Communist hands behind this. 10. The Leftist tendency of Wafdist press has latterly been more pro- nounced. It is announced in the press that the Secretariat-General is interrogating editors and writers in Wafdist papers regarding anti-capitalistic articles. 11. There have been cordial exchanges of messages between Arab rulers after their dispersal from the meeting at Inshass. Egyptian press emphasises Arab solidarity and underlines unanimous support of Arab State for Egypt's cause. 12. Sidki Pasha appears to have been disturbed by refutation in the House of Commons of his inaccurate and mythical account of events there in Alexandria. In answer to the enquiries by correspondents as to his opinion of this refutation he replied that he was awaiting the official text. 13. The Government has refused the request that some of the accused in Amin Osman murder case should be allowed to attend the university examinations. THIS DOCUMENT IS THE PROPERTY OP HIS BRITANNIC MAJESTY'S GOVERNMENT EGYPT AND SUDAN. June 15, 1946. CONFIDENTIAL. SECTION 1. Copy No. 61 Sir R. I. Campbell to Mr. Bemn, — (Received 15th June.) (No. 1084.) (Telegraphic.) Cairo, Uth June, 1946. WEEKLY appreciation. . . In spite of disquiet, owing to prolongation of suspension of negotiations, there has been more optimism in the press and amongst the public, owing largely to alleged favourable reports from Amr Pasha indicating that His Majesty s Government were likely to yield to Egyptian treaty demands. Egypt has used the Arab League meeting in Syria to secure a League pronouncement in favour of Egyptian demands and expressing disquiet at suspension of negotiations. 2. Chamber in secret sitting, discussed Sidki Pasha's statement on treaty negotiations (see paragraph 1 of my telegram No. 1000), and voted apparently almost unamimously a motion supporting attitude of Egyptian delegation. The absence of any serious opposition in the Chamber naturally made Sidki Pasha s task easier there than in the Senate with its considerable Wafdist minority. 3. There lias, of course, been much speculation about Field-Marshal Mont- gomery's visit, and he is generally supposed to have come here in connexion with treaty negotiations. . 4. Sidki Pasha has categorically denied persistent rumours of a reconstitu- tion of the Cabinet. 5. Sidki Pasha has been attacked owing to statement (see paragraph 12 of my telegram No. 1038) in Mr. McNeill's answer in Parliament to the effect that the Egyptian Government have privately apologised for Alexandria incidents, Sidki Pasha denied having presented an apology, but said he might possibly have expressed regret to some Englishmen. It is typical of present super-nationalist atmosphere that an Egyptian Prime 'Minister has to swear by all his gods that he has not apologised for murder of two British soldiers. When further questioned in the Chamber about Alexandria incidents, particularly in connexion with indemnities for Egyptian sufferers, Sidki Pasha, while denying any Govern- ment responsibility for such compensation, added that Egyptian .Government had •claimed compensation from the British for Egyptian sufferers, and British had also claimed compensation : neither side had paid compensation so far. 6. Victory Day (see paragraph 9 of my telegram No. 1038) passed off quietly all over the country except at Alexandria, where there were some demon- strations which were energetically suppressed by the police and the army, who were extensively martialed to keep order, and some throwing of hand grenades, one of which slightly injured four British soldiers and another wounded seven Egyptian civilians. Two British soldiers were also assaulted by Egyptians, but managed to escape. The threatened general strike did not materialise, but Alexandria was in a semi-comatose condition during the day. The Wafdah Misri of the 7th June was confiscated for inciting publip to strike on following day. Two editors of this paper were subsequently detained in preventative arrest after investigation by Parquet of an inflammatory article. The Left-ward tendency of this paper is getting more pronounced. 7. Sidki Pasha, in reply to objections raised in Parliament to Egyptian participation in the victory parade in London, said that the Government had not hesitated to accept this invitation, as such' participation was excellent propa- ganda for Egyptian army and a definite recognition of Egypt's efficacious partici- pation in the victory as well as of her great :effort during the war. 8. Labour unrest continues owing to the increasing unemployment (see paragraph 8 of my telegram No. 1038). Railway workers, telegraph and telephone employees and engineers in Government service are threatening to strike for increased pay. There have been demonstrations of unemployed at Alexandria, and on one occasion demonstration raised shouts of " Long live England who gave us work!" [78-87] . - / 2 9. At the reopening of Alexandria University (see paragraph 9 of my tele- gram No. 1038) college of students was partial owing to the demand of the Government for payment of fees, and abstention of students owing to non- acceptance of their demands for the release of their colleagues arrested in connexion with the disorders wlhich brought about the closure of the university. 10. Considerable interest is being evinced by Egyptian public in Bludan meeting of Arab League Council, and particularly pi the council's statement in favour of Egyptian cause. 11. Three more of the accused in Amin Osman murder case have been released, although they are known to be bad men. It is generally reported that the intention is gradually to release all the accused on the grounds of insufficient evidence and of alleged forcible pressure by the police to extort confessions, except actual murderer of Amin Osman, who it is suggested will be declared insane and confined to a lunatic asylum. It is evident that influence from high quarters is being brought -to bear to prevent the punishment of these arrested members of the murder ga,ng. /'' 12. General atmosphere among the politically articulate and conscious continues to be exceedingly anti-British. The anxiety of foreign colonies and minor elements is increasing as they are convinced that they are bound to get a raw deal on our departure. This anxiety is enhanced by the increased Moslem fanaticism fostered by the Palace regime as part of its campaign against Wafd, which has been in favour of Moslem-Christian co-operation. 13. Egyptian Government have endeavoured, vainly so far, to compose difference between Coptic'' Patriarchate and Ethiopian delegates regarding relations between Alexandrian Patriarchate and Ethiopian Church. The main difference is the claim of the Ethiopians that Archbishop of Ethiopia should have the right to consecrate bishops in Ethiopia, while Patriarchate insists that such consecration must be effected by Patriarchate. 14. The escape of Mufti from France has provoked considerable interest in Egypt, and opportunity is taken to hail him as an Arab nationalist hero. THIS DOCUMENT IS THE PROPERTY OF HIS BRITANNIC MAJESTY'S GOVERNMENT EGYPT AND SUDAN. July 5, 1946. CONFIDENTIAL. SECTION 1. Copy No. 62 Sir H. Seymour to Mr. Bevin.—{Received 5th July.) (No. 1197.) (Telegraphic.) Cairo, 5th July, 1946. WEEKLY appreciation. Political public have been considerably worked up by the delay in resumption of negotiations, mid Sidki Pasha, whose position was getting very embarrassing both in view of public opinion and of the restlessness of the Egyptian Delegation, displayed evident relief in publicly announcing the forthcoming return of Lord Stansgate. 2. The press has been full of articles attacking the idea of a Joint Defence Board. Makram, in an interview with his paper, characterised the board as a form of British protectorate. A similar statement was made by the Wafdist leader, Abdel Salam Fahmy Gomaa. 3. Serag Ed-Din has filed a motion in the Senate proposing the breaking off of negotiations and reference to the Security Council. Azhari has written to Sidki Pasha in the same sense and similar resolutions 'have been adopted by various youth organisations. 4. Opposition press has been belittling the evacuation of the Citadel, which is represented as merely eye-wash. 5. The Wafdist youth movement has published a call for general mourning on the llth July, the anniversary of the beginning of British occupation. 6. Labour situation continues fyad. Strikes are reported at important Alexandria textile factory and at Kom Ombo sugar factory. Press reports that transport workers proposed to go on strike on the 6th July, There has been further hunger-striking- among workmen discharged from factories. An anti- capitalist circular is reported to have been distributed at Alexandria. 7. Strike of secondary school teachers has ended : strikers took note of official assurance that their case would be the object of special attention. 8. Government engineers are threatening to go ,on strike and also police officers. Trouble amongst officials appears to have been stimulated by the formation of a union of officials by Mahmoud Rashid, son-in-law of Sidki Pasha and director of personnel at the Ministry of the Interior. The plan presumably was to marshal officials under Sidki Pasha's banner and to lure them away from the Waf'd. However, the coming-together of officials in collective consultation inevitably encouraged them to make collective efforts to secure increase of pay. The Government are submitting to Parliament legislation with a view to making strikes of officials illegal. 9. Abdel Rahman Al-Biali has been appointed Minister of Finance. Pie is supposed to be a friend of Sidki Pasha and a Palace man, but he has made vague professions of socialism. In a statement of policy on his appointment, he particu- larly emphasised his aim to raise the standard of living of the masses arid his sympathy for minor officials. 10. Continuance of the truce between the Wafd and Makram has given rise to repeated suggestions of likelihood of reconciliation between him and the Wafd. The Wafdist press, however, maintains that similarity of their present attitude is on purely national issues and does not involve permanent reconciliation. 11. An attempt was made to assassinate informant who denounced Amin Osman's murderer. There can be little if any doubt that would-be perpetrators of crimes of this kind have been encouraged by release of various miscreants associated with the murder gang. The assailant was arrested and other arrests and perquisitions have been made in this connexion. Court has rejected demands for release of other accused in the Amin Osman murder ease. 12. A Wafdist interpellation has been filed in the Senate regarding restrictions on the Mufti's activity in Egypt. Wafdist and Makramite press have continued to inveigh against any suggestion that the Mufti should not enjoy complete liberty in Egypt. 13. So far there has been no marked reaction amongst Egyptians to our recent anti-terrorist measures in.JPalestine. ' [79—« THIS DOCUMENT IS THE PROPERTY OF HIS BRITANNIC MAJESTY'S GOVERNMENT > ' EGYPT AND SUDAN. October 18, 1946. CONFIDENTIAL. SECTION 1. ARCHIVES Copy No. 62 Mr. Bwwker to Mr. Bevin.—(Received 18th October.) (No. 1563.) (Telegraphic.) Cairo, 18tfi October, 1946. WEEKLY appreciation. Sidky Pasha's fighting speech at Tanta (a Wafdist stronghold) on the 10th October made a considerable impression by the vigour of its attack on the Wafd's policy. Sidky Pasha told His Majesty's Minister that he was greatly impressed by the warmth of his reception at Tanta, but Wafd press has derided this as artificial and emphasises that exceptionally elaborate security precautions were taken. Niahas Pasha has published a further polemical retort, and Makramite bloc decided to organise a mass meeting in Cairo to ventilate their views but this was banned by the Government. Makram Ebeid has therefore published an open letter to Sidky Pasha in his newspaper objecting to Sidky Pasha's visit to London and reiterating opposition to our basic treaty proposals. 2. Refusal of the Egyptian Mission to endorse Sidky Pasha's decision to visit London was generally anticipated. The press reports a statement by Abdel Kawi Ahmed Pasha, now Acting Prime Minister, that the Cabinet has approved Sidky Pasha's motives in undertaking this "national mission." Liberal and Saadist leaders also blessed Sidky Pasha's enterprise while bowing to the view of their colleagues of the delegation that they should not accompany Sidky Pasha lest the delegation should thereby be associated with the visit. Sidky Pasha was in buoyant mood on his departure for London, and appeared hopeful that his visit would be fruitful. 3. Nahas Pasha, as president of the Wafd, has addressed to His Majesty's Embassy a letter enclosing a French translation of the Wafd manifesto of the 1st October requesting its communication to His Majesty's Government. Nahas Pasha's letter refers to " inadmissible exactions of His Majesty's Government " and expresses conviction that Egypt's fellow-signatories of the United Nations Charter will assist Egypt in virtue of the fundamental principles of that Charter which the Security Council is charged to apply. A similar communication has been addressed to the American Embassy and certain other diplomatic representa- tives in Egypt. Such a step suggests that the Wafd's intransigent attitude as regards the future of Anglo-Egyptian relations, as expressed Ih its manifesto, cannot be regarded simply as a pocket internal political manoeuvre, but that the Wafd is now irrevocably committed to internationalisation of the Egyptian problem. 4. Abdel Kawi Ahmed Pasha (Independent) is Acting Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior during Sidky Pasha's absence. He is a forthright personality and a competent administrator, and is probably the most suitable member of the Cabinet to undertake temporarily the onus of maintaining public security. 5. With reference to paragraph 6 of my telegram No. 1525, it is now reported that the Azhar and its provincial institutes and the King Farouk University will reopen on the 16th November. The police took satisfactorily prompt and effective action against the minor disturbances in Cairo and elsewhere on the 15th October reported to have been organised by the Moslem Brethren and similar bodies mainly to protest against Sidky Pasha's departure for London. The parquet has placed a ban on press reports of demonstrations, and present indications are that the competent authorities are fujly prepared to deal firmlv with any disturbances of public order. 6. Police report states that Nabil Abbas Halim has told his working-class followers that his Egyptian Labour Party may now be considered as a political party open to all workers regardless of their trades union connexions. It is under- stood that Sidky Pasha is considerably displeased by acceptance of the presidency of that party by his Minister of Finance, who took office as an Independent (see [82—145] ( ' ^ \ COPtRlftHT OF THE PUBLIC RECORD OFFICE, 10*0011 2 4 paragraph 7 of my telegram No. 1508). Biaj group undecypherable] Bey has previously shown tendencies towards socialistic demagogy since becoming Minister of Finance. 7. A scandal involving a number of officials in the Passport Office of the Ministry of the Interior, who are alleged to have accepted bribes for grant of visas and residence permits, is under investigation and has evoked some comment to the effect that the integrity of the present regime is no better than that of the late Waf dist regime. 8. Editors of the official Wafdist daily newspapers, the organ of the Young Egypt Party and four weekly reviews are being interrogated in connexion with the publication of articles considered libellous against the Prime Minister and the Government. 9. Moslem Brethren Society's newspaper has denied rumours of the existence of a pact between themselves and the Wafd, and explains that recent conversations between certain prominent members of both parties have (been devoted to the necessity of a truce in the present critical circumstances. THIS DOCUMENT IS THE PROPERTY OF HIS BRITANNIC MAJESTY'S GOVERNMENT EGYPT AND SUDAN. September 7, 1946. CONFIDENTIAL. SECTION 1. Copy Sir R. I. Campbell to Mr, Bemn.~(Received 7th September.) (No. 1439.) (Telegraphic.) Cairo, 6th September, 1946. WEEKLY appreciation. Confidential discussions have been proceeding between the Palace and Sidki Pasha with a view to strengthening his position in the Egyptian delegation, many members of which were actively in opposition to him. It was proposed to re-form the Cabinet by the inclusion of four Saadists in order to secure firm support of Saadists in the delegation. This project was divulged by Akhbar El Youm before the Liberals in-the Cabinet and other important elements had been informed. It was generally supposed that Sidki Pasha, who had previously divulged treaty projects to that paper, had again been guilty of tlhis indiscretion, perhaps in order to counter the Wafdist hopes of coming to power. Sidki Pasha, however, denied that he had given this information to the paper in question. Anyhow the result was that the Liberals were seriously disgruntled and Hifni Mahmoud tendered his resignation. The Liberal Party after a subsequent meeting published a decision to the effect that they did not raise any claims regarding me Cabinet reconstruction except that their Ministers should remain in their present posts and that the Liberal Party should be consulted. It had previously been made known in the press that Sidki Pasha proposed that one Liberal and one Saadist should be Ministers without Portfolio. According to agent!"-'in touch with the Palace King Farouk telegraphed from Cyprus insisting that Hifni Mahmoud's resignation should be accepted. According to the same source Sidki Pasha had informed the Liberal leaders of His Majesty's decision and warned them of the danger of insisting on retention of Hifni Mahmoud. It is not yet known what will be the final decision of the Liberals. It is generally felt that tlhis untimely publication of the Cabinet reconstruction proposals has diminished the chances of whole-hearted co-operation of Saadists and Liberals with Sidki Pasha even if the Liberals decide to eat their words and participate in the new Cabinet on lines indicated above. King Farouk is prolonging his cruise in the Mediterranean regardless of the Cabinet crisis, which it is thought cannot be resolved until his return. His Majesty's cruise has exposed him in some quarters to charges of irresponsibility; and t/his may be the reason for the suggestion that perhaps his object was to leave politicians to settle their difficulties and to make it clear that he was not interfering in political difficulties whose cause was difference of opinion in the delegation on treaty proposals. According to f the agent in touch with the Palace King Farouk wishes Sidki Pasha to remain in office as the man most capable of maintaining security if negotiations break down. 2. At a meeting of the delegation on the 4th September Sidki Pasha submitted a note containing detailed arguments supporting the thesis of Egyptian sovereignty in the Sudan. He had previously sent this note privately to the Ambassador without any indication that it was going to be submitted to the delegation. The effect of such a communication to the delegation could only increase opposition to compromise on this issue. Lord Stansgate's departure to inspect R.A.F. stations, in Eastern Mediterranean has been interpreted m some quarters by the Opposition to indicate that Great Britain is refusing to budge from her position in treaty negotiations. From the tone of some comment it has also had a healthy effect. Sidki Pasha has indicated to the press that he is expecting further proposals from us and the very early return of Lord Stansgate. According to the agent in touch with the Palace, delegation at its last meeting insisted that Sidki Pasha should urge us to expedite our response to the delegation's last communication. There have been rumours of resignations from the delegation if something definite in this respect did not occur but according to Amr Pasha, the last meeting, which was expected to be stormy' passed off fairly quietly. / [81—48] COPYRIGHT OF, THE PUBLIC RECORD OFFICE. LONDON I I I I M I I I I I I I I I 1 I I i 3. At a congress held during Bakam Moslem Brethren passed resolutions ; demanding rupture of negotiations Yrehunciation of 1936 Treaty, immediate ; withdrawal of British troops within aVear, refusal to conclude any treaty before the evacuation and submission of Egypt's case to the Security Council. In the event of the Government failing to take these decisions the nations should consider it an accomplice of the British in their aggression against independence of the country and fight it exactly as it is fighting the British. The congress also demanded that the leaders of all parties should declare at once for struggle against the British and announce their refusal to accept power except on the . basis of the above resolution. Hafez Ramedan has also come out with a statement describing the negotiations as a "comedy" and the Cabinet reconstruction as a replastermg.' He also criticised the tactics of presenting a draft treaty to the British, which allowed us to make it a basis for bargaining and frittering away of Egyptian rights. t> | 4. At the reopening of the Alexandria University on the 31st August i students went on strike as a protest against Great Britain's attitude in the treaty .; negptiations. They were also influenced by their grievances regarding examina- l tions, fees and continued detention of some of the students involved in the disorders which brought about closure of the university at the beginning of the summer. The police surrounded the university and prevented the students from demonstrating outside. The Minister of Education states that at present only students of three years of the faculty of law and some students of the faculty of commerce are still on strike. But also some arrests have been made So far this student demonstration has not resulted in serious disorder. 5. Decree law to facilitate effective measures against Communist activities &c. has now been promulgated. There has been a recrudescence of unrest in Labour circles on expiry of the period of two months which the workers agreed to allow the Government to study their grievances. ' ° 6. There has been appreciable fall of level of the Nile floods and feeling has become more optimistic on the subject. 7. Announcement of refusal of the Higher Arab Executive in Palestine to attend the conference in London has naturally proved embarrassino- to the Egyptians Nevertheless Egyptian Arab delegates and Azzam are leaving for London. Efforts are being made to induce the Mufti to bring pressure to bear on the Palestine Arabs to go back on their decision to boycott the conference Pessimism regarding the conference is general here. THIS DOCUMENT IS THE PROPERTY OP HIS BRITANNIC MAJESTY'S GOVERNMENT EGYPT AND SUDAN. ts September 14, 1946. c CONFIDENTIAL. SECTION 1. Copy No. Sir R. I. Campbell to Mr. Bevin.—(Received 14JA September.) (No. 1457.) (Telegraphic.) Cairo, 14th September, 1946. WEEKLY Appreciation. , Prolongation of King Farouk's cruise in the Eastern Mediterranean and j consequent prolongation of Cabinet crisis has very unfavourably impressed the I general public, particularly as on the eve of Sidki Pasha's change of Government Egyptian Ministries practically cease functioning. Fact that the King left just before Queen Farida's birthday has also been regarded as unseemly. The King's absence weakened Sidki Pasha's position as it was taken to indicate royal indifference to him and as it also gave time for the development of both the Liberal and Saadist intrigues and for the accentuation of feeling in favour of the return of the Wafd to participate in the Government. It is generally recognised by the Egyptians that the negotiations have to be suspended during this interregnum, but it apparently did not occur to them that it was discourteous to Lord Stansgate to keep him waiting indefinitely while they were squabbling amongst themselves. However, this sorry spectacle of Egyptian intrigues and divisions at a moment when the country's national destinies are being decided has caused considerable disgust amongst the Egyptian public. It has been suggested that King Farouk's prolonged absence may be due to his desire to keep out of party conflicts and the treaty negotiations at a time when both are in a dubious state. Rumours have not been lacking that His Majesty is meeting high British personalities on this cruise, but there is no indication that these emanated from His Majesty. The only bright feature of this apparently inopportune cruise has been King Farouk's flying visit to Turkey, which, taken in conjunction with his declaration to the press at Mersina to the effect that Egypt and Turkey were sister nations and would, he hoped, strengthen their relations, has been interpreted as a political jsture of importance at a moment when Turkey is being subjected to hostile gussian pressure. 2. On the llth September Sidki Pasha and the acting head of the King's Cabinet flew to Rhodes to present to His Majesty certain decrees for signature and Sidki Pasha's proposals for reconstruction of his Cabinet on basis of the admission of the Saadists. It is thought that agreement had been secured with the Liberals as to their participation before Sidki Pasha's departure. On the 12th September Sidki Pasha returned to Alexandria and the royal rescript was published nominating four Saadist Ministers, namely:— Abdel Hadi, vice-president of Saadist Party, is appointed Minister for Foreign Affairs vice Loutfy Sayed, who becomes deputy president of the Council of Ministers. Abdel Magid Badr, Social Affairs, vice Liberal Peru Samra, who becomes Minister without Portfolio. Sanhouri, Minister without Portfolio, who, it is understood, is paflicu- larly to occupy himself with Arab affairs. He is at present head of the Egyptian delegation at the Palestine Conference in London. Mahmoud Hassan, head of State legal department, is appointed Minister of Justice vice Kamel Moursi, who becomes president of the newly-created Council of State. Mahmoud Hassan was charged with the enquiry into the famous Corniche road scandal in which Sidki Pasha during his last premier- ship was implicated. Sidki Pasha is supposed to dislike him cordially, but it is said that Nokrashi insisted on this appointment. The other Ministers remain as they were. It will be seen that the Liberals have modified their party decision to the extent of acquiescing in the removal of Peru Samra from Social Affairs to the post of Minister without Portfolio, while Hefni Mahmoud remains Minister of Communications. , [81—85] 3. Egyptian public and press more interested in Cabinet crisis than the negotiations, but such comment as has appeared in the press has continued to be on intransigent lines regarding the Sudan, which is now regarded as the funda- mental issue. Cabinet reconstruction was designed to strengthen Sidki Pasha against the opposition in the delegation and particularly to discourage the Independents from continuing their obstruction and intrigues with the Wafd. Public appears doubtful whether this Cabinet reconstruction will greatly influence the Independents, who, it is thought, may well continue to be intransigent and to work for participation in the Government of the Wafd. With such participation of the majority of the party it is feared that no treaty can be considered on its merits or obtain general acceptance if signed. All this has accentuated the feeling that the present Cabinet reconstruction is not durable and that the Wafd cannot be indefinitely left out of the Government picture. 4. As regards the Sudan issue Sidki Pasha gave an interview to Ahrum on the 5th September defining Egyptian sovereignty as somewhat generally different from the old ideas of oppressive sovereignty and as a democratic sovereignty remote from direct rule and leaving the Sudan to govern themselves. This has been interpreted by the press, as a step towards compromise with the British. However, Azhari, in a statement to the press, declared that Sidki Pasha had assured him that all the Egyptian negotiators were agreed on united Nile valley as a basis of negotiations. j 5. Moslem Brethren sent delegations to the British Embassy and to the ' American Legation to submit copies of resolutions referred to in paragraph 3 of my telegram No. 1439. 6. Students of the Faculty of Law at Alexandria are still continuing their strike. They are, among other things, protesting against the brief transfer to Cairo University of the dean of the Faculty of Law, whose behaviour on the occasion of the disturbances which caused the closing of the university last June had been regarded as damaging to academic discipline. 7. Three more persons arrested in connexion with the anti-Communist drive have been released, leaving only some half-dozen-odd persons still under arrest. 8. There has been a further fall in the level of the Nile flood and Ministry of Public Works has stated that the acute danger has now passed, though there may be further damage done by infiltration. 9. Passage through Egypt by the Arab delegates to the Palestine Con- ference and the conference itself have, owing to the internal political crisis, excited less attention than would otherwise have been the case. It has been generally reported that the Mufti had invited members of the Higher Arab Com- mittee of Palestine to come to Alexandria with a view to inducing them to attend the conference. The Mufti proceeded to Cairo to get in contact with the various Arab delegates on their way through to London. COPYRIGHT OF THE PUBLIC RE.CORO OFFICE, LOMOON Reference:-I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I \ [W 3 CABINET DISTRIBUTION FROM CAIRO -TO FOREIGN OFFICE Sir R.I. Campbell 117Q D. 6.00 P.BU 29th June, 1946. R. 7.48 p.m. 29th Juno, 1946. sssss L. My telegram No. 11S7. o•-•.;-}. "° /•?/ -^ '> / 7 C Weekly Review Musawwar states Makram Pasha has formally refused to dissociate Sudan problem from question of evacuation, has formally rejected new British proposals and is opposed in principle to military alliance with.Britain* Musawwar adds when asked why he continued to negotiate when not in agreement with his colleagues on the principle, he replied "I am fulfilling my duty to the end: at moment of signature I shall leave my place blank". . *A ;''Vfe^^i4t»«h:^*m <^~ THIS DOCUMENT IS THE PROPERTY OF HIS BRITANNIC MAJESTY'S GOVERNMENT xh° EGYPT AND SUDAN November 30, 1946 CONFIDENTIAL SECTION 1 . 69 Mr. Bowker to Mr. Benin. (Received 30^/i November) (No. 1791) (Telegraphic) Cairo, 3WA November, 1946 WEEKLY appreciation. The treaty negotiations have now entered into a new phase in consequence of the dissolution of the Egyptian delegation and of the Chamber's vote requesting the Government to pursue efforts to cfltry out national objectives. Outstanding feature of Chamber's debate was the withdrawal of Opposition elements and a number of Independents who unsuccessfully pressed for an open debate. It is reliably reported! that Saadist Party and majority of Liberal Party unreservedly supported the King. It is noteworthy that on entry into the Chamber Makram Pasha and his party, who had hitherto sat on the Govern- ment side of the House, moved over to the Opposition benches. As a result of the vote of confidence, optimistic speculation is now ripe as regards the possibility that the Egyptian Minister for Foreign Affairs may be delegated to sign the treaty in London in the near future, but it is, of course, not generally known that there still remains to be settled the question of an exchange of letters on certain part of the agreement and on certain outstanding points. 2. Dissident delegates' action in publicising their reasons for rejecting latest proposals is greatly resented by King Farouk, who, according to a senior Palace official, considers that dissident delegates should just have submitted their case to His Majesty, who has not forgotten that at least two of the signatories had recently been urging on His Majesty the necessity for an under- standing with Great Britain as the basis of Egyptian policy. The dissent of the Egyptian delegates in question is probably due to—• (a) fear of compromising their own political future; (6) fear for their personal safety; and (c) personal dislike of Sidky Pasha, rather than to any real conviction that the latest proposals are in themselves disadvantageous to Egypt. 3. Governor-General of the Sudan had an interview with the Egyptian Prime Minister, at which the latter insisted that it was premature to talk of eventual Sudanese independence. King Farouk has not so far responded to the Governor-General's request for an audience. 4. Wafd Party, which has met under the presidency of Nahas Pasha, has taken a, number of uncompromising decisions to demonstrate the party's firm opposition to Bevin-Sidky Pasha treaty proposals, and appeals for a'general outcry on an unspecified date to demonstrate national sentiment. The Wafd's. decision to organise a political campaign in the provinces, beginning at Tanta next week, may be expected to have a serious effect on the already precarious state of public security in the provinces. 5. After several days of disorders in Cairo, the Egyptian authorities have temporarily closed the universities at Cairo and Alexandria and certain secondary ;,,K schools which were the scenes of disturbances'. Reports so far received indicate that a large measure of responsibility is attributed to the Moslem Brethren , Society for these incidents, and particularly those of 25th November in Cairo ,v when bonfires of English publications were lighted in the streets in accordance with j a prearranged plan concerted by the Moslem Brethren. According to police reports, demonstrators have shouted slogans against Bevin-Sidky Pasha treaty negotia- tions and in favour of complete evacuation and unity of the Nile Valley. Some hundreds of demonstrators are reported to have been taken into custody, and use of revolvers and other explosive weapons by students has resulted in a substantial number of casualties on both sides, owing to the fact that in certain cases the police were obliged to fire at the students after warning shots fired in the air had proved of no avail. < 6. Press reports that the Makramite Party propose to raise interpellations in the Chamber about the allegedly excessive measures taken to repress students on 26th November (see paragraph 2 of my telegram No. 1763), and about Sidkv f 84—221 : Pasha's ban on reporting students' disorders in the press. Another forthcoming •interpellation relates to ban on political meetings and] to confiscation of news- papers. As regards the latter, Journalists Syndicate has addressed a strong protest to the Minister of the Interior alleging that such action \vas taken with- out legal warrant and is incompatible with the Constitution. 7. A Cairo city police report states that the Egyptian Labour Party intends .to publish a weekly magazine of its own in addition to propagating its ideas in daily newspaper Dustour (see paragraph 4 of my telegram No. 1653). 8. Clandestine publication of Communist pamphlets is continuing. A recent specimen emphases the need for organised co-operation in the Communist cause between the workers and peasants and also between Communist elements in Egypt and those in the Sudian. 9. Chief of the Imperial General Staff was received in audience by King Farouk on 27th November. 10. Serious concern has been manifested by Arab League circles, now .assembled in Cairo, at thejppposed revival of Greater Syrian project in con- sequence of a statement, -rightly or wrongly attributed to King Abdullah, expressing optimism at the prospects of ascending to the throne of a Greater Syria in the not distant future. This has led to publication in Cairo of a state- ment, reported to have been signed by representatives of each of the Arab States members of the League, including the Foreign Minister of Transjordan, dis- claiming any intention to dispute the sovereignty or independence of any State which is a member of the Arab League, and affirming fidelity to the Arab League covenant. A statement by the Arab League condemning the continuation of Jewish immigration into Palestine foreshadows an official communication from the Arab League to His Majesty's Government on this subject. It is also reported in the press that the Council of the Arab League has taken cognisance of messages from political organisations in Morocco, and has authorised Secretary-General to approach the French Government for liberation of certain North African exiles, notably the former Bey of Tunis. 3 IS DOCUMENT IS THE PROPERTY OF HIS BRITANNIC MAJESTY'S GOVERNMENT EGYPT AND SUDAN December .7, 1946 CONFIDENTIAL SECTION 1 ARCHIVES. Copy No. 6 2 Mr. Bowker to Mr. Bevin, (Received 7th December) (No. 1829) ....'.. (Telegraphic) Cairo, bth December, 1946 WEEKLY appreciation. Egyptian Government circles are showing keen anxiety to sign treaty forth- with, not only in the interest of Anglo-Egyptian relations generally., but even more for the sake of restoring internal stability which remains seriously threatened by violent attempts of political agitators, to subvert existing regime. Egypt's eyes are now turned to London in the. hope that means may be speedily found to reconcile remaining divergencies of view particularly as regards future status of the Sudan. The last issue of Akhbar-el-yom mentioned possibility of a crisis in this connexion, and insisted that Sidky Pasha's interpretation was the only valid one. The faGt-4^xat the Governor-General of the Sudan has remained in Cairo in spite of f3isunion)is also negarded in Egyptian circles as a sign that this fundamental issW-ia-the principled/obstacle to immediate signature. Mean- while various spokesmen of Saadist aira Liberal parties have contributed articles to the press in favour of the latest proposadf and Heykal Pasha has addressed a meeting of his party at which while approving the proposals and declaring himself opposed to any submission of the Egyptian question to the Security Council, he suggested certain additions to article 3 and article 7 of Bevin-Sidky Pasha draft to provide for the possibility of revision as soon as the Security Council was in a position to exercise military and executive powers envisaged by United Nations Charter, Heykal Pasha refuted suggestions that the Joint Defence Board would constitute a form of protectorate [group undecypherable] Sudan he argued in support of Sidky Pasha's thesis that draft of the Sudanese protocol envisaged self-government for the Sudan within the framework of Egypto-Sudanese unity under a common Crown. He stated that if Great Britain signed treaty after "insertion of additions proposed by Liberals (see above) her signature would be considered as approval of Sidky's interpre- tations of the Sudanese protocol. The press publishes text of a long telegram which Nahas Pasha is reported to have addressed to U.N.O. according to which he protested against the alleged coercion by Great Britain to force Egypt to accept a treaty consenting to humiliation of a protectorate. Pasha, who in this telegram styles himself "Leader of the country and President of the Wafd," requests U.N.O. to compel Great Britain to respect international principles of freedom. 2. Projected strike of lawyers referred to in my telegram No. 1799, and which Government officials denounced as illegal, only partially materialised, and according to reports was apparently a somewhat hike-warm manifestation on the second day when cessation of work was intended to mark a protest against Bevin- Sidky proposals. It appears to have been observed mainly by Wafdist and other politically-minded Opposition lawyers. The Wafd is reported to have held long discussions about Government ban on proposed Wafdist political meeting at Tanta, and the procession of Nahas Pasha and his leading henchmen set off by road towards Tanta on 5th December, thus eluding the strong force of police posted at Cairo main station, but they were stopped on the road a short distance outside Cairo and requested to turn back or as they claim turned back of their own accord. Large forces of police and the Egyptian army are reported to have been drafted to Tanta as a precautionary measure and the Wafd press has described Tanta as a stronghold bristling with armoured cars and tanks. Wafd later, on 5th December, issued a long manifesto attacking Sidky's repressive policy and characterising Bevin-Sidky proposals as a national calamity. 3. Further sporadic attempts to disturb public security have taken the form of attacks with bombs on police stations which the Egyptian security authorities attribute mainly to the Moslem Brothers, but so far no arrests have been made in this connexion. A bomb explosion at Keykal Pasha's house caused only minor injuries to a policeman on duty and a student said to belong to the [84—55] COPYRIGHT OF THE PUBLIC RECORD OFFICE, LONDON I I I 1*1 I I I I I I l'l '2 Moslem Brothers has been taken into custody in connexion with it. A bomb incident also occurred at Alexandria without serious consequences. The signifi- cance of these incidents seems to lie in their being directed against the Egyptian authorities rather than against the British unless perhaps some of them were a '' frame-up '' to justify the stringent security measures. A substantial reward has been offered by the Government for information leading to identification of the culprits responsible for the attacks on the police stations. The university remains closed, but preparations are being made to open schools which were closed down during the recent disorders, measures being taken to eliminate provocative student elements and to obtain guarantees of future good behaviour of those admitted. A report from D.S.O. states that Wafd has been distributing revolu- tionary pamphlets in the Canal Zone. The same source also reports the arrest of five individuals on 5th December including Henri Curiel, who had at some time been under arrest as a suspected Communist, and the discovery of Communist .documents at their respective houses. £>hief editor of the Moslem Brothers' daily newspaper has been arrested in connexion with the publication of articles con- sidered libelous and subversive. Anti-Government pamphleteering continues. 4. According to the weekly Musawioar Wafdist circles are considering advisability of constitutional reform, mainly as regards the provisions governing the dissolution of the Chamber of Deputies and the dismissal of the Cabinet. The same journal reports the secretary-general of the Liberal Party as having sug- gested that it was now time to embody the title of "King of Egypt and the Sudan " in the Egyptian Constitution. 5. On 2nd December Chamber fixed dates, of some three weeks and some four weeks hence, for the discussion of interpellations referred to in paragraph 6 of my telegram No. 1791. 6. French Legation in Cairo has now become an embassy, and Transjordan Consul-General has presented his credentials as Minister. 7. Session of the Arab League Council is continuing and is expected to be concluded next week. The council is reported in the press to have discussed the project for preserving the Arab land in Palestine and to have recommended that the various Arab States should protest to President Truman and the United States Government about their continuation and their partial intervention in Palestinian affairs. Azzam Pasha is reported to have called on Pandit Nehru and Mr. Jinnah during their passage through Cairo to discuss with them India's attitude towards the Palestine question. According to the newspaper Kotla Azzam Pasha told its reporter that the recent ventilating of the greater Syrian question had cleared the air and demonstrated the solidarity of the Arab States in respecting the Arab League Covenant.Tanta on the 10th October. [82—61] COPYRIGHT OF THE PUBLIC RECORD OFFICE. LONDON