Internal political situation in Qatar

This file contains correspondence relating to:

• The continued enjoyment by Qatar Petroleum Company (QPC) and Shell Company of Qatar Limited of their concessions and preservation of HMG control over the foreign policy of Qatar
• A letter from Political Agent J S R Duncan to B A B Burrows on his first impressions of Qatar
• A conversation between Duncan and the Ruler of Qatar Sheikh Ali Bin Abdulla Al Thani about Prince Faisal Bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud and his relationship to King Saud Bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud and the position of Saudi Arabia vis-a-vis the United Arab Republic (UAR)
• The meeting of the Political Resident in the Persian Gulf with the Ruler of Qatar, June 1958
• The revolt against President Camille Chamoun of Lebanon reported by Cairo Radio
• The popular reaction to the uprising against King Faisal II Al Hashemi and his regime in Iraq and the anxiety of the Ruling Family including Sheikh Ahmad Bin Ali Al Thani; the return of Burrows to the Gulf and his message of support addressed to Sheikh Ahmad; the possibility of deploying British troops to counter threats posed by pro-Egyptian elements; the possible adoption of recommendations contained in the 'Proposed Constitution for Qatar'; and a rumour about the possible abdication of King Hussein Bin Talal of Jordan for £10 million
• Discussions of the situation in Qatar involving Sheikh Ali, his advisors G M Hancock and Ahmad Mullah and members of the Arabian Department in London, 15-16 August 1958; and an offer from Foreign Secretary Selwyn Lloyd to Sheikh Ali of military assistance on request
• An unofficial visit by Burrows to consult with Sheikh Ali, Sheikh Ahmad and Hancock in Qatar.