THE MIDDLE EAST

Otago Daily Times, Issue 23952, 30 October 1939, Page 7

THE MIDDLE EAST

ALLEGED SOVIET AIMS SPREAD OF COMMUNISM MOSLEM RESISTANCE NEW YORK, Oct. 28. (Received Oct. 29, at 9 p.m.) The Cairo correspondent of the New York Times states: “It is generally believed here that the Soviet is preparing to Bolshevise the Middle East. This opinion is based on a large concentration of troops at Baku. The Russian belief is that the East, with its semi-feudal system, lends itself readily to Bolshevisation, It is believed that as a pretext for invasion of Iran, the Soviet will ask for an outlet in the Persian Gulf. Refusal is expected. With Turkey aloof, it is improbable that the Iranian Army will be able to resist long. Thus the entire Middle East, including India, would be endangered. “But Russia would be disagreeably surprised if she embarked on the campaign. Besides tremendous resistance by the Allies, despite their preoccupation in the West, she will face the resistance of the entire population of Middle Eastern countries—lran, Iraq, and Afghanistan—over 90 per cent, of which are Moslem, and 80,000,000 Moslems in India, all bitter foes of Communism on religious grounds. Benefits with which the Soviet may intend to bribe the natives are insufficient to compensate for the fear that the Soviet may abolish Islam. No 0.G.P.U., no wholesale shootings can force devout Moslems to submit to Communism. FOOD SUPPLY FOR BRITAIN THE POSITION IMPROVED (British Official Wireless) RUGBY, Oct. 27. Mr W. S. Morrison stated that the food supply position has improved. It will have a very restrictive character so long as the present suppi” position is maintained. A statement in regard to the date .of the introduction of rationing, the main object of which will be to secure equitable distribution. will be made shortly. All margarine is of standard quality and is “ vitaminised,” thus equalling butter in food value, and is being sold retail at 6d per lb. Butter supplies are shorter, but district allocations are being expedited.