HC Deb 27 October 1908 vol 195 c71
MR. DILLON

I beg to ask the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he adheres to the statement that the British and Russian Governments and their representatives in Persia have absolutely abstained from all interference in the internal affairs of Persia.

SIR EDWARD GREY

Both Governments have maintained a policy of general non-intervention in regard to Persia; but they have united in recommending to the Shah the grant of a Constitution, as it seemed to them the best means of promoting peace in the country.

MR. DILLON

Did they at the time they recommended the grant of a Constitution take any means of assuring the safety of the Persian delegates who might be elected?

SIR EDWARD GREY

It is quite obvious that to give guarantees to either one party or the other in Persia of that nature would lead to direct intervention in the internal administration of that country.