NOT ADVISABLE.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 11754, 19 July 1916, Page 6

NOT ADVISABLE.

MILITARY STAFF OBJECT MESOPOTAMIA AND DARDANELLES PAPERS. •MAY HELP, THE ENEMY, Beuter's Telegrams. (Received July 19, 11,25 a.m.) LONDON, July 18. In tbe House- of Commons Mr Asquith said' that the Dardanelles papers could not bo published at present, except in an incomplete form. Tbo "War Council was unanimously of the opinion that publication would assist the enemy. Every step in Mesopotamia had been taken with the advice of the military authorities. With "regard to the conduct of the campaign there undoubtedly were incidents which aroused anxiety and doubt whether tho best means had been adopted to securo the end in view. A Commission of Inquiry into the medical arrangements in Mesopotamia had reported that-when they left everything possible was being done. The Government was satisfied that tho imperfections in tho transport were being remedied. The Army Council was strongly opposed to the publication of the Mesopotamia papers, as they would furnish the enemy with valuable information. Tho General Staff was of opinion that publication would prejudice the success of the operations. "Replying to a. suggestion that tho Dardanelles and Mesopotamia campaigns should be discussed in «a secret session, Mr Asquith said:—"Wo had one such experiment. It was not a great success."