LONDON: The British government under former prime minister Clement Attlee was divided over its policy in the Middle East, and feared ‘intense Arab nationalism’, according to previously confidential files released on Friday.

Mr Attlee served as prime minister from 1945 to 1951, during which time the state of Israel was established.

In cabinet meetings in 1949, however, foreign secretary Ernest Bevin warned that disputes between Israel and Palestine were causing unrest, particularly among young Arab men — prophetic warnings in the current climate, given the fragile truce in the region.

Shorthand notes, taken by the Deputy Cabinet Secretary and released to the National Archives on Friday, quote Mr Bevin as saying: “(We) want to avoid cross purposes with Pakistan. The two ends of Muslim world Turkey and Pakistan are very important.”

“Which way will they lead the Moslem world? We may be sowing seeds today.

“(I) believe in Muslim revival. Can’t assume it will be friendly whatever we may do.”

The foreign secretary’s stance on Palestine was met with opposition within the cabinet, particularly from health secretary Aneurin Bevan, who the notes relate said: “I have consistently opposed Ernest Bevin’s policy on Palestine. Ill advised by Foreign Office from outset.”

“Agree defence of Middle East is vital to us: but can’t be defended thro’ friendship with rickety mediaeval states.”

Bevan also said that Attlee ‘went on record in favour of Jewish state. I never did’.

Attlee disputed the allegation, saying: “I said we had a balanced responsibility on both sides.”

Despite the disagreements on the issue, however, the cabinet presented a united front to Parliament and stood behind the foreign secretary’s policy.—AFP