TURKISH NATIONALISTS

Otago Witness, Issue 3509, 14 June 1921, Page 17

TURKISH NATIONALISTS

CONSTANTINOPLE, June 8. There is considerable activity in naval circles. It is anticipated that British ships will cover the landing of Greek troops in Asia, Minor, and will blockade tho Black Sea ports. Persian delegates have arrived at Angora to negotiate an alliance with the Kemalists. LONDON, June 8. The Daily Express says that the plot to drag Great Britain at the heels of Greece into a new war against the Turkish Nationalists in Asia Minor is developing rapidly. Diplomats are working behind the scenes in London and Paris with the object of committing Great Britain to a great offensive. M. Venizelos (ex-Premier of Greece) visited Mr Lloyd George, but the British taxpayers are determined not, to assist in the territorial aspirations of Greece. •Tune 10. The Daily Chronicle says that a conference of .Ministers was held at Chequers Court on the dangerous situation in the Near East. It is understood that the British Government is still desirous of observing neutrality, but the situation may necessitate a change of policy owing to the uncompromising hostility of " the Kemalists, who prohibit British vessels touching at Turkish ports. If the Greeks suffer further defeat or if the Kemalists gain Constantinople, British prestige in

the Middle East will be seriously affected. The British policy is not likely to require a land campaign, but may necessitate naval and other indirect assistance to Greece. WASHINGTON, June 10. The Administration has received information to the effect that the Turkish Nationalists, aided by - the Soviets in Russia and smaller countries, are about to launch a big mi’itary effort to expel the Greek and Allied troops from Turkey. The text of the Russian -Turkish Nationalists’ agreement, which was made on March 16, has been received. It shows that the two countries made a solemn compact to overthrow Entente control. Other advices state that Kemal Pasha is receiving large supplies and reinforcements from the Soviet Government. ATHENS, June 10. The King, the Prime Minister, and the Minister of War are leaving for the front to-morrow.