§ 4. Mr. KINGasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether the Swedish officers commanding the Persian 415 gendarmerie have been withdrawn; if so, for what reason; and what means are being taken to supply their places?
§ Sir E. GREYThe whole organisation of the Swedish-officered gendarmerie has been thrown into confusion owing to the persistent failure of the Persian Government to make proper provision for the regular payment of the force. In present circumstances His Majesty's Government are not prepared themselves to provide the necessary funds for this purpose, as they have done on previous occasions. There are at this moment in Persia no officers either on the active or reserve list of the Swedish Army. Certain Swedes are still serving in Persia as private individuals who may, however, shortly return to their own country. The question of a possible reorganisation of the force is engaging the attention of His Majesty's Government.