§ 18. Sir JOHN JARDINEasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he is in a position to make a statement on the political affairs of the Hedjaz and other parts of Arabia, and the operations of the Turks in the vicinity of Aden?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for FOREIGN AFFAIRS (Mr. Balfour)Early in November last the Grand Sherif Hussain assumed the title and office of King at the request of the Ulema and Notables of Mecca, approved by the unanimous vote of the people, and has been recognised as King of Hedjaz by the Allied Governments. His Highness has established his authority, and has entered into close relations with the important Chieftain Ibn Saud of Nejd and with the Shaykh of Koweit, who have warmly approved the step he has taken. Another important Chief, Idrisi of Asir, has also risen against the Turks. The only remaining pro-Turkish Chiefs of any consequence are the Imam of Yemen, who is isolated, and Ibn Rashid, the head of the Shammar, whose influence is decidedly on the wane. With regard to the second part of the question, I would point out to my hon. Friend that as the Turkish force near Aden is isolated from Turkish headquarters, and the Turkish military authorities have consequently no means of ascertaining its dispositions or condition, except through our Press, I would prefer not to give any reply, except to say that we regard the position as satisfactory.