§ 64. Mr. MANDERasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs the present situation at Gambeila, in Ethiopia; what British representation exists there; and whether communications are open?
§ Viscount CRANBORNEThe enclave at Gambeila, which is leased by the Sudan Government as a Customs post, contains, in addition to the Customs officers, a police post which has recently been strengthened to a total of 75 men under a British officer. I have no detailed information with regard to the Abyssinian town of Gambeila, which is some little way from the enclave. I understand the situation to be that which has been recently described to the House, namely, that there exists considerable tension between the remaining Amhara officials and the Galla population. Communications from the Sudan with the Gambeila enclave, which at this season of the year are by water, are open. There is a road from the enclave to Gore which, according to my last report some weeks ago, cannot be regarded as safe for ordinary travellers without escort.
§ Mr. MANDERCan the Under-Secretary say what steps are being taken to protect these British representatives?
§ Viscount CRANBORNEI have already said that the police have been strengthened to 75 men under a British officer.