IOR/L/PS/18/B420

Despatch from the Honourable Lieutenant-Colonel Cyril Charles Johnson Barrett, Political Resident in the Persian Gulf, to the Foreign Secretary to the Government of India, 28 August 1929. Printed in October 1929.

Covering:

• a brief history of the development of British concern in the internal affairs of Bahrain;
• fear of interference displayed by the Government of India;
• behaviour and attitude of the Shaikhs of Bahrain;
• the Customs Department - contention between Shaikh Isa [Shaikh ‘Īsá bin ‘Alī Āl Khalīfah] and the Government of India, the collection of revenues, and the post of Director of Customs;
• the question of whether Bahrain has been westernised too hurriedly - lists the reforms instituted and their outcomes, including municipalities, reorganisation of the Customs Department, institution of a proper police force, appointment of an Advisor to the Shaikh, reformed courts, reforms in connection with the pearl fishery, survey, public works, education, and reform of the Waqfs;
• the necessity to educate natives of Bahrain to take the place of British officials, and educate rulers;
• recommendations.