'File 9/4 Bahrain Reforms. Introduction of Reforms in Bahrain' [‎12r] (40/224)

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Bin Sa'ud may te not unaware of these designs. Some years ago tliey used to pay
a small diving tax in a commuted form. Even then, they resisted direct taxation.
For several years they have ceased even these payments, and the Ruler is afraid
to insist on them.
In the past the Ruler has relied on the Do wash and other Sunni tribes to enable
him to overawe the Shiah Bahrainis and they were always allowed a free hand
in their dealings with Shiahs. Last year when the Bahrainis became increasingly
restive, they repeatedly pressed on Shaikh Hamad the necessity for taking repres
sive measures. The Shaikhs, howevei. , were thoroughly alarmed and afraid to push
matters to the extent advocated by the Dowasir. The latter asked permission to
deal with certain sections of the Bahrainis themselves, but Shaikh Hamad refused.
His own position owing to Abdulla's intrigues was delicate, and he was aware that
if disorders resulted he might be held responsible and Abdulla would make much
of the situation. The Dowasir bitterly criticised this attitude, but were also afraid
to take the law into their hands, since they distrust the Shaikhs, and suspected that,
should their action cause disorders the blame would be placed upon them to clear
the Shaikhs. They have since frequently tried to force Shaikh Hamad's hand by
picking quarrels with the Bahrainis, an example of which was the Barbar affair
"which was reported at the time. This matter has never been settled. Although
they dare not admit it, the Rulers know that the Dowasir deliberately instigated
the affair. They would gladly saciifice the Bahrainis to placate the Dowasir who
continue to press for ' redress ' but are afraid that such action would cause a revolt
among the Shiahs. They therefore continually delay a full enquiry.
It is probable that the recent more determined attitude of the Bahrain Shiaha
to rid themselves of oppression is displeasing to Bin Sa'ud. I suspect this from the
attitude of his agent here in the matter. Bin Sa'ud has Shiah subjects at Qatif
who are closely connected with the Bahrainis and whom he taxes out of all propor
tion to their wealth. Reports have once or twice been received that they were inclined
to resent the treatment and on one occasion which was reported to you and to the
High Commissioner for Iraq, they attempted to approach me, but were discouraged
as we had no desire to interfere in the affairs of the Sultan of Nejd. Also it is
becoming increasingly apparent that Bin Sa'ud is anxious to have a hand in Bahrain
affairs. The same attitude has, I believe, been [noticed by the Political Agent A mid-ranking political representative (equivalent to a Consul) from the diplomatic corps of the Government of India or one of its subordinate provincial governments, in charge of a Political Agency. ,
Kuwait in regard to that place. It would therefore be in his interests if the in
efficient administration of Bahrain continues, enabling him to make secret alliances
with independent factions such as the Dowasir. Reforms, entailing equitable
taxation means support to the Bahrain Government to enable them to control
equally the Sunni and Shiah tribes. The Dowasir have been settled so long in
Bahrain that they are recognised as Bahrain subjects. In their relations with the
Shaikhs they do not enjoy the good offices of the Agency An office of the East India Company and, later, of the British Raj, headed by an agent. , as is the case with all
recognised subjects of Bin Sa'ud. Since they are, however, virtually independent
they have no need for such assistance. f
The Rulers of Bahrain have recently adopted a somewhat more just attitude
towards the Shiahs, probably as a result of the warning given by Government, but
•quite recently they appear to be testing their power again in this respect, and as
in accordance with the instructions of Government, I have^ scrupulously avoided
interference, they are inclined to gain confidence. The Bahrainis on the other hand
are divided, and"some of the leaders are discouraged at having obtained no support
from His Majesty's Government as a result of appeals, whereas others advocate
open rebellion should oppression again increase and are reported to have imported
arms.
The Sunni tribes are almost all pearling nakhudas. Great oppression exists
in the pearl diving, and the majority of the oppressed are Shiahs and under
British protection, being foreign Arabs or Persians. The Sunni tribes resent all
xeforms, lest a small beginning should lead to reforms also in the diving.
I would point out that whereas reforms introduced by the Shaikhs, might be
a good thing even if imperfectly devised and inefficiently carried out, it will be
different matter if they are introduced under pressure from His Majesty's Govern
ment. In that even every possible flaw will be discovered and exploited. Before
embarking on such a policy I would therefore respectfully suggest that I may be