LONDON: The British Government is ready to review its Middle Eastern policies with special emphasis on seeking a solution to the Arab-Jewish controversy in Palestine and the tangled situation with the French in Syria.

This is understood to be the reason for Foreign Minister, Mr. Bevin’s call summoning Britain’s diplomats in the Arab States to London. The formation of the Arab League, which proved powerful at the San Franscisco Conference, is believed to be making unified policy towards the Middle East necessary. Mr. Bevin is understood to be desirous of taking up questions of oil and the termination of British wartime supply arrangements in the Middle East, as well as to discuss political problems in Palestine, Syria and Iran.

Officials point out that while they are not directly linked in current and coming talks, British relations with the rest of the Muslim world may effect a possible settlement in India. India’s Viceroy, Lord Wavell, is currently having conferences with the new Labour Government leaders here and Middle East talks are scheduled to start as soon as the chiefs of the Missions arrive.

Published in Dawn, September 6th, 2020