30. Sir J. D. REESasked the Prime Minister whether the Government has official information to the effect that the Ottoman Government has disavowed the Nationalist movement and the action of the Nationalist party in Anatolia, and that the Sheikh-ul-Islam has issued a proclamation to the same effect; and whether such outrages as have occurred have been caused by or with the express or implied approval of the Nationalist party?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWThe Imperial Decree appointing the new Grand Vizier, who took office on 5th April, condemned the Nationalist movement in outspoken terms as a rebellion which had gravely damaged the interests of Turkey and might still further endanger them. A further proclamation issued on the 10th April in similar terms gave the rank and file one week in which to submit to the 24 Sultan, and threatened with condign punishment the leaders of the Nationalist movement and any Moslems guilty of excesses against Christians, and vice versa. Similar decrees have also been published by the Sheikh-ul-Islam. There is little doubt that the outrages which occurred were caused by, or at least had the approval of, the Nationalist party.
Sir J. D. REESIn view of the fact that these outrages are attributed to the deliberate action of the Turkish Government, should not stress be laid upon this repudiation from official sources?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWI think it is desirable, and I hope the answer to this question will help in that direction.