CRISIS POSSIBLE

Gisborne Herald, Volume LXXV, Issue 22623, 28 April 1948, Page 5

CRISIS POSSIBLE

BRITAIN _& ARABS TRANSJORDAN’S MOVES BEVIN SEEKS REPORTS |N.Z.I>.A. Keuter - Uui.yr .yiit.) (11 a.m.) LONDON, April 27. Transjordan’s reported invasion of Palestine may precipitate a crisis in Britain’s relations with the Arab States, says Reuter's diplomatic correspondent. The Foreign Secretary, Mr. Ernest Bevin, has called for urgent reports from Palestine and Sir Alec Kirkbride British Minister to Transjordan. If the reports confirm that King Abdullah intends to invade Palestine or the invasion is taking place, the British Cabinet will have to take serious measures. No reports of any attempted mutiny by Arab Legion units under British command have reached London. Britain’s position is delicate as she is due to ratify the newly-signed Anglo-Trans-jordan treaty within the next few days. Britain, under the treaty undertakes considerable obligations for the maintenance and training of the Transjordan Army. As Transjordan has not been admitted to the United Nations, it is difficult to use international influence on King Abdullah to prevent an extension of the Palestine fighting into a generalised war.