IOR/L/PS/18/B404

Memorandum providing an overview of the British connection with Basidu [Bāsa ‘īdū](on the island of Kishm [Qeshm]) in terms of status and rights from c 1820-1928. Covering:

• introduction to the location of Basidu and its strategic importance;
• extent of the British Concession;
• status of Basidu – control by the Imam of Muscat, British settlement, Persian protest against British occupation, recognition of Kishm as Persian territory, and the legal position of Basidu;
• 1868-1926 – consideration of British options, and the decisions made;
• 1926-28 reassertion of Persian claims – status of concessions including coaling stations, and the Persian threat to occupy British Basidu August-September 1928, and resulting British naval precautions.

It includes a summary detailing the legal position in regard to Basidu and the value of retaining the coaling station. In addition, a list of points referred to in connection with the Persian Gulf Sub-Committee, and the view expressed by the Government of India are also given.

Written by John Gilbert Laithwaite of the India Office.