§ Major ANSTRUTHER-GRAYasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he could make any further statement as to the condition of affairs in Persia, particularly with regard to Tabriz; and whether British life and property were adequately safeguarded?
§ Sir E. GREYI have received no information respecting any change in the general situation in Persia since the date of the last reply which I returned to the hon. Member. With regard to Tabriz, His Majesty's Minister at Teheran has reported that the Shah has ordered the suspension of hostilities till further orders, and the opening of the roads for the admission of food into the town. A Russian force is being got ready to start to protect the Consulates and foreign subjects if need be. I have no information as to any fresh danger to British lives and property.
§ Major ANSTRUTHER-GRAYWhen may we reasonably hope that the food will arrive at Tabriz? The population is starving.
§ Sir E. GREYEverything has been done to secure the opening of the roads. I trust that, if they are not opened by the Shah's forces under his instructions, the starting of the Russian force will secure the opening.
§ Mr. SMEATONWhen is the Russian relief force likely to arrive?
§ Sir E. GREYI understand the last intention was that it should start to-morrow from the Russian frontier.
§ Mr. PONSONBYIs there a clear understanding with the Russian Government that the Russian troops enter Tabriz only in order to guard the Consulates?
§ Sir E. GREYTo guard the Consulates and protect foreigners. It will also make sure of the opening of the roads for the food supply.