AFRICA.

New Zealand Graphic, Volume XLII, Issue 19, 12 May 1909, Page 7

AFRICA.

Unrest in Egypt. The report of Sir Eldon Gorst (British Agent and Oonsul-General in Egypt) on the condition of Egypt emphasises the signs of political unrest, and the absence of any sign on the part of the non-oflicial classes among the Egyptians of recognition of the advance gained. Never in recent years, he says, have they displayed a more prejudiced attitude to the proposals and acts of the Government, and specially those they consider due to English inspiration. The only result of the agitation of the small minority would be the postponement of the further instalment of autonomy. A delegation from the Egyptian General Assembly and Provincial Council recently visited England to put before the Press reforms of a more moderate character than those advocated by the Nationalists, whose demand is complete autonomy. Ismail Abaga Pasha, leader of the party, addressing a gathering in London, said:—“You had always the honour of helping the different nations who were struggling for a form of self-government, and your sympathy was with the Russians, Persians and Turks struggling for a constitutional form of government. We therefore appeal with confidence to your support in our desire to obtain a sort of representative House, with limited powers, dealing with administrative, judicial, financial and educational matters, and leaving international treaties, foreign capitalisation, public rights and matters concerning the liquidation law —in a word, all matters in which foreign or international interests are at stake.” They were convinced that the whole educational system of Egypt called for reconstruction. He repudiated the suggestions as to a state of religious fanaticism in Egypt, and declared that there was no reason for alarm on the subject.