HC Deb 31 July 1916 vol 84 cc2037-8
3. Colonel YATE

asked the Under-Secretary for Foreign Affairs whether, in view of the necessity that exists for the speedy completion of the Mohammerah-Khoramabad Railway in Southern Persia, he will expedite the repayment of the sum of £19,382 12s. 2d. mentioned in the directors' annual report as due to the Persian Railways Syndicate, Limited, by the Persian Government in order that construction may be commenced and the railway completed as far as Ahwaz or Dizful, or some other point as far north as possible, with as little delay as possible?

Lord R. CECIL

His Majesty's Minister at Tehran has been instructed to support this claim against the Persian Government. The hon. and gallant Member will, no doubt recognise that present conditions in Persia impose certain limitations upon financial and other progress.

Colonel YATE

Will steps be taken to push on this very necessary railway?

Lord R. CECIL

I did not understand that this question was in reference to pushing on the railway, but to a claim against the Persian Government. That we will support.

Colonel YATE

That is the first preliminary to pushing it on.