§ Mr. GEORGE GOOCHasked the Secretary of State whether any danger to the European residents in Tabriz is anticipated; and, if so, what steps is he taking to protect them?
§ Sir E. GREYThe Europeans at Tabriz are subject, of course, to the risks incidental to residence in a town which is under siege. The Persian Government have been warned that if any harm happens to His Majesty's Consulate-General or to British subjects or property, they will be held responsible to His Majesty's Government. His Majesty's Minister at Teheran has quite recently been requested to repeat this warning to the Shah, and the Russian Government are being asked to send similar instructions to their representatives.
§ Mr. LYNCHMay I ask the right hon. Baronet whether, in view of the proximity to Tabriz of the Russian and Turkish frontiers, arrangements can be made for the entrance into that city of strong consular guards for Eussia and for Turkey to act as a check in case of an attempt being made to massacre the inhabitants?
§ Sir E. GREYThat concerns the Bussian and Turkish Governments. There has been a general understanding if any reinforcement of the consular guards takes place protection will be given to the residents not only of the nationality of the countries sending the reinforcements, but to all foreign residents in the place.