A United Front in Egypt
Italian propagandists in Egypt last week were trying to stir up mischief by a rumour, reported in the Press, that the British were urging Egypt to declare war on Italy. That report is now fully discredited by a declaration of the Egyptian Prime Minister last Saturday that the British Government had never made any such request. Nor is there the least reason why Britain should wish Egypt to change from her status of friendly non- belligerency to one of belligerency unless Egypt is invaded—in which case she herself would wish to take action. On the entry of Italy into the war Egypt broke off diplomatic relations with Italy and accorded us all the rights which we enjoy under the Treaty. The Italian Minister at Cairo and his retinue have departed. But the position of the country is none the less critical, so much so that all parties desire a broadening of the basis of government. The resignation last Sunday of the Prime Minister, My Pasha Maher, was accepted by King Farouk, not because his policy was disapproved of, but because the emer- gency called for a Government formed from all parties in Parliament. There is unanimous feeling both for keeping the country out of war as long as possible, and for faithful observance of the treaty with Britain.
Previous page
