File 3360/1916 Pt 3 'Persian correspondence. (1918-22)' [‎167v] (345/668)

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I accept, however, the political necessity for its temporary retention.
Otherwise mutual agreement arrived at regarding distribution of levies.
On the other points, the views are on matters where Gould is the best
judge and I accept and support, especially the need for more officers for the
levies.
Telegram P., No. 39461-M. O. 1, dated the 20th May 1919.
From—The War Section, Army Headquarters, Simla,
To—The General Officer Commanding, Baluchistan, Quetta.
Priority. With reference to Inspector-General of Communication^
Birjand’s 47—3213, May 15th.
Please telegraph your views on proposals and ascertain the total number
of rifles asked for as the figures in paragraph 6 are not clear.
170
Telegram P., No. 688-S., dated the 20th May 1919.
From-
-The Secretary to the Government of India in the Foreign and Political
Department, Simla,
To—His Britannic Majesty's Charge d'Affaires and Special Commissioner, Tehran.
At present reports do not point to likelihood of extension of Afghan
hostilities to Eastern Persia beyond possible raids on our lines of communica
tions. It is, however, considered advisable to have our arrangement ready.
What are your views as regards position of Gould and Grey ? Ordinary
procedure would be for them to come on to Dickson’s and Malleson’s staffs
as Chief Political Officers, remaining of course in political control in all
matters not directly affecting operations. Malleson and Dickson would
under this arrangement be supreme authority, political as well as military^
in all matters effecting operations. They would keep both you and Government
of India fully informed of all political developments connected with opera
tions, referring for orders all questions affecting, even indirectly, policy in.
Persia on which they do not accept Chief Political Officer’s advice except in
cases of extreme urgency, when decision taken would he reported immediately.
Grey would also act as political adviser to Dickson in regard to area on line
of communications within his jurisdiction.
Your suggestions would be welcomed by Government of India.
171
_ ^ Telegram P.^No, 381, dated the 26th (received 27th) May 1919.
From—His Britannic Majesty's Charge d’Affaires and Special Commissioner, Tehran^
To—His Excellency the Viceroy (Foreign and Political Department), Simla.
(Addressed Foreign Office.)
Governor-General, Khorasan, after consultation with Malleson and Grey
and with their approval and support, has submitted a scheme to Central
Government for increased participation of Persian troops in defence of Pro
vince against Afghanistan and Bolshevik menace. Support of Legation was
asked at this end and Governor-General has been authorised by Cabinet to
start all measures proposed which will involve initial outlay of 12,000 to
15,900 tomans 10,000 Persian dinars, or a gold coin of that value. and (recurring ?) monthly expenditure 15,000 to 20,000 tomans 10,000 Persian dinars, or a gold coin of that value.
for maintenance of additional men.
Cabinet have no margin of working funds owing to operations going on
in Gilan and against brigands in Ispahan district and beg Bis Majesty’*
Government to assist them in regard to monthly account, i.e., 15*000 tomans 10,000 Persian dinars, or a gold coin of that value.
or if possible 20*000.