Britain and Turkey Plan Co-operation

Manawatu Times, Volume 64, Issue 112, 15 May 1939, Page 7

Britain and Turkey Plan Co-operation

In Event of War In Mediterranean

MUTUAL ASSISTANCE (British Official Wireless.) RUGBY, May 12. The following statement of the negotiations with Turkey was made in the House of Commons by the Prime Minister:— “Britain and Turkey have entered into close consultation, and the discussions which have taken place between the two countries and which are still continuing have revealed their customary identity of views. “It has been agreed that the two countries will conclude a definite longterm agreement of a icciprocal character in the interest of their national security. At the completion of tho definite agreement Britain and Turkey declare that in tho event of an act of aggression leading to war in tho Mediterranean area they would be prepared to co operate effectively and lend each other all the aid and assistance in their power.

“This declaration, like tho proposed agreement, is not directed against any country, but is designed to assure Britain and Turkey of mutual aid and assistance should the necessity arise. “It is recognised by the two Governments that certain matters, including more precise definition of tho various conditions which would bring the reciprocal engagements into operation, will require closer examination before the definite agreement can be completed. This examination is proceeding. “The two Governments recognise that it is also necessary to ensure the establishment of security in the Balkans, and are consulting together with the object of achieving this purpose as speedily as possible. “It is understood that the arrangements above-mentioned do not preclude either Government from making agreements with other countries in the general interest of consolidation of *poace. ”

The Leader of tho Opposition, Mr. C. R. Attlee, expressed the satisfatcion of the House at Mr. Chamberlain’s statement, and asked about tho staff talks. Mr. Chamberlain replied that ho did not think that matter would arise until the agreement roferred to in his statement had been concluded. He declined to attempt a definition of the term “Mediterranean area.” ANNOUNCEMENT IN TURKEY ANKARA, May 12. The Anglo-Turkisli agreement was announced in the National Assembly.