IOR/L/PS/12/1500

This file is a continuation of Collection 1/61 (IOR/L/PS/12/1499) and consists of extensive correspondence, reports and minutes.

The file opens with papers regarding efforts to remove Yemeni forces from Shabwa [Shabwah], and arrangements to open formal negotiations on the Aden Protectorate-Yemen border. The following topics are discussed: arrangements for formal boundary negotiations, within the scope of the Treaty of Sana'a (1934); the context of broader Anglo-Arab relations, and the Palestine Conference; and a potential change in policy to approve air strikes within Yemen.

Also documented are the formal negotiations regarding the Aden Protectorate-Yemen border, conducted by the Imam of Yemen, his representatives, and R S Champion (District Commissioner for Palestine, temporarily seconded to the role in light of his work during the Treaty of Sana'a negotiations). These papers cover the following topics: Yemeni claims of sovereignty over Shabwa and Al 'Abr, and later Seiar and Bal Ubeid; the importance of Shabwa and Al 'Abr to the security of the Aden Protectorate; definitions of the 'violet line', and ambiguity in Article III of the Treaty of Sana'a; instructions to be issued to Champion; the potential for future oil exploration in the region; communications addressed to King George VI from the Imam of Yemen; proposals to designate Shabwa and Al 'Abr as "neutralised" areas; the impact of the European war on British influence in the region; and the breakdown of negotiations, and subsequent plans to strengthen military positions at Shabwa and Al 'Abr.

Later papers concern the following: plans to guard against possible Italian military action in Yemen and the Aden Protectorate; the killing of Royal Air Force (RAF) personnel following an emergency aircraft landing at Al 'Irqa, and the subsequent arrangement of a truce and punishment; rebellion against Mukalla by Obeid Saleh Bin Adbat of Al Ghurfa, and his subsequent punishment; and the killing of RAF personnel by Quteibi tribesmen on their return journey from the Rest Camp at Dhala.

The papers primarily consist of minutes and memoranda of the Committee of Imperial Defence Standing Official Sub-Committee on Questions Concerning the Middle East, plus copy telegrams between the Secretary of State for the Colonies and the Governor of Aden. There are also copy telegrams received from the Imam of Yemen, plus reports from Reginald Stuart Champion, William Harold Ingrams (Resident Adviser at Mukalla, later Chief Secretary), and Morice Challoner Lake (Political Secretary), on their negotiations with Yemeni representatives.

The file includes a divider which gives a list of correspondence references contained in the file by year. This is placed at the end of the correspondence (folio 1).