ABYSSINIA AS A FREE STATE

Dominion, Volume 34, Issue 113, 6 February 1941, Page 7

ABYSSINIA AS A FREE STATE

Britain’s Attitude

CLAIM OF SELASSIE RECOGNIZED Possible Future Guidance (British Official Wiredese.) RUGBY, February 4. The attitude of the British Government to the future of Abyssinia was the subject of an important statement in the House of Commons.

When replying to a question, the Secretary for War, Mr. Eden, said: “The Government would welcome the appearance of an independent Ethiopian State and recognize the claim of the Emperor Haile Selassie to the throne. “The Emperor has intimated to Britain that he will need outside assistance send guidance. The Government agree with hi.=» view, and consider that any such assistance and guidance in economic and political matters should be the subject of an international arrangement at tin? conclusion of the peace. They reaffirm they themselves have no territorial ambitions in Abyssinia.

“Meanwhile, the conduct of military operations by the Imperial Forces in parts of Abyssinia will require temporary measures of military guidance and control. These will be carried out in consultation with the Emperor, and will be brought to an end as soon as the situation permits.”