'Oil Concessions' [‎95r] (208/480)

pliklcu
-2-
however. that I regretted, that I was not in a posit
so answer these questions * tliat the Balirain State was
juridically an independent Government and the Slmikh an
independent Huler though he did not exercise jurisdiction
over foreigners, and I therefore suggested to him that
he should approadi sir Belgrave, Adviser to the Bahrain
Ooverranent, on arrival at Bahrain, who would be in a
position to give hira full information regarding any
fonaalities connected witii the x'egittration of land
which raight be required by the Bahrain law and also
supply him with details regarding the register of land
which was being prepared. Major Holmes expressed the
view to m that the oil concession did not confer any
ownership in the land ana m this view I inclined
to agree. If so, no registration would presumably
be necessary except for such land as the Company wish
to occupy for buildings, etc. I do not, however, know
how far the procedure for the registration of land has
proceeded or what rules have been frawed regarding it.
This information will be obtainable, however, from the
local authorities at Bafarain and asked aajor Holraes
to reply to Messrs freshficias. Lease and Munns or to
get 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. to do so. As regards the
question of the receipt; the foria suggested by aessrs
Freshfields, lieese and Munna would seem suitable and if
this is signed by Shaikh Hanad or by Mr Belgrave on his
behalf it would, in my opinion, constitute a complete
discharge against any other person.
I have thought it desirable to send this
rflply through you instead of direct to the Solicitors.
I mould request that, if Your Lordship sees no objection,
it should be conraunicated to Messrs jfreshfields, .ueese
and Uunns.
I have the honour to be,
with the highest respect,
Your Lordship's most obedient,
, , „ humble servant,
j?/
-7 ' . / - u -'