The King's Speech was unusually long. It began with a
reference to Egypt and the Sudan, and, quite rightly, insisted upon the legality with which the Government had behaved. It was noticeable that the anti-British campaign culminating in the assassination of the Sirdar was described as " inspired rather than discouraged by the Government of Zaghlul Pasha." The next subject dealt with was the League of Nations, and here again it was noticeable that the Government were Most anxious to profess their • allegiance to the League, particularly in the context of Egyptian affairs, As • regards -the Geneva Protocol, it was pointed out that the Govern- ment had not yet had time to consult the Dominions. We may interpolate here the fact that in the Council of the League at -Rome Mr. - Austen Chamberlain has asked for a postponement of the discussion of the Protocol, and that his request has been granted. The Speech -went on to say that the Government, although they were unable to recommend that the Russian Treaties should be further considered, were anxious that " normal intercourse" between Great Britain and Russia should not be interrupted.
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