BRITAIN AND EGYPT.

Waikato Times, Volume 100, Issue 16814, 4 June 1926, Page 7

BRITAIN AND EGYPT.

STRONG NOTE SENT. SIRDAR'S MURDER TRIAL. TIIE SIX ACQUITTED MEN LONDON, June 2. The British Government has sent a strong note to Egypt. In this it declines to accept Hie verdict returned by the jury at Hie recent trial, when six out of the seven men who were accused in connection with tho murder of the laic Sirdar, Sir Lee Stack, were acquitted. Too despatch of the British Note follows the annoueemenl of the resignation of Judge KcrshuT*, who presided at the trial. The Judge affirms that the verdict was so contrary to tho weight of evidence as lo constitute a grave miscarriage of justice. It is understood the Note reserves judgment in respect of the verdict, but in the meantime declines to accept it as proof of the innocence of the individuals concerned. The N'otc intimates further that the British Government also reserves the liberty to lake whatever steps may be necccssary to ensure the safety of foreigners. The Court consisted of two Egyptian Judges and Judge Kershaw. The acquittal of six of the prisoners occasioned a great demonstration in Cairo. Zaghlul Pasha is reported to have wept tears of joy. The Cairo correspondent of the Morning Post says the news of Judge Kershaw's resignation and the Note from I lie British Government was not altogether unexpected. It is regarded as tlic first of a series of important developments.

The correspondent says it is clear that Britain docs not intend to take the threats of the \Yafd Party (Zaghlulists) lying down It is stated that Zaghlul declined to give an undertaking to Lord Lloyd, High Commissioner for Egypt on certain points, and declared that it would be necessary for him lo go to London. Thereupon Lord Lloyd replied: “For Hie present purpose London is inc.” . .

The Daily Express says the British battleship Resolution has been ordered to Egypt from Malta. King Fuad lias refused to accept the resignation of Hie Prime Minister, Ziwar Pasha. He lias requested him to carry on till tlic present political crisis lias been settled. It is believed that no arrangement is possible between Britain and Zaghlul Pasha, it is reported that Zaghlul will sit in Parliament on Sa'urday without a Royal decree.