Britain and Turkey to Conclude Long-Term Security Pact

Northern Advocate, 13 May 1939, Page 7

Britain and Turkey to Conclude Long-Term Security Pact

f ■ ’ (Received 1 p.m.) RUGBY, May it fTPHE FOLLOWING STATEMENT ON THE NEGOTIATIONS WITH TURKEY WAS MADE IN THE HOUSE OF COMMONS BY MR. CHAMBERLAIN: “Britain and Turkey have entered into close consultation, and the discussions which have taken place between the two countries, and which are still continuing, revealed their customary identity of views. ...“It was agreed that the two countries will conclude a definite longterm: agreement of a reciprocal character in the interest of their national security. :■ . “At the completion of the definite agreement, Britain and Turkey wilt declare that in the event of an act of aggression leading to war hi the Mediterranean, they would be prepared to cooperate effectively, and lend each other all aid and assistance in / their power.

Mutual Aid

“This declaratiori, like the 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 a more precise definition of the various conditions which would bring reciprocal engagements into operation, will require closer examination before a definite agreement can be completed. Security in Balkans “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. s “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 peace.” Mr. C. R. Attlee, Labour leader, expressed the satisfaction of the House at Mr. Chamberlain’s statement, and asked about staff talks. Mr. Chamberlain replied that he did not think that matter would arise until the agreement had been concluded. He declined to attempt a definition of the term ‘Mediterranean area.’ ”