DARDANELLES, MESOPOTAMIA.

Auckland Star, Volume XLVII, Issue 171, 19 July 1916, Page 6

DARDANELLES, MESOPOTAMIA.

OFFICIAL REPORTS WtTHHELD FOR MILITARY REASONS. (Reuters Telegrams.) (Deceived 11.35 a.m.) IX>NDONr, July 18. Tn the House of Commons, Mr Asquith stated that the Dardanelles papers could not be published at present except in incomplete form, the War Council being unanimously of opinion that publication would assist the enemy. Every step in Mesopotamia was token on the advice of the military authorities. As regards the conduct of the campaign, undoubtedly there were incidents which aroused anxiety and doubt whether the best means were adopted to secure the end in view. The Commission of inquiry regarding the medical arrangements in Mesopotamia reported that when they left cvorythiiur possible was being- done, and the Government was satisfied that imperfections in the transports were being remedied. The Army Council was strongly opposed to publication of Mesopotamia papers, as they would furnish the enemy with most valuable information. The General Staff was of opinion that publication would prejudice the sueerass of our operations. Replying to a suggestion that the Dardanelles nnd Mesopotamia campaigns should be discussed in secret session, Mr Asquith said: '"We hud one such experiment, and it was no groat success."