883.00/1153: Telegram
The Minister in Egypt (Fish) to the Secretary of State
[Received November 27—9:16 a.m.]
312. In a statement of policy before Parliament yesterday afternoon the new Prime Minister said that the preceding Cabinet had been able to meet the difficult situation confronting it by adopting the policy outlined in the speech from the Throne and that it was his intention to follow the same program.
It would appear under the circumstances that the Prime Minister will rely as did Hassan Sabry Pasha before him on anti-war sentiment for support in Parliament. It is interesting to note in this connection that on November 18 the Chamber of Deputies elected Dr. Ahmed Maher Pasha leader of the pro-war group as its President but it is not yet clear to what extent his election was due to personal popularity and to what extent to approval of his policies. Presumably this situation will be clarified in discussing the speech from the Throne which will come up for debate at a later date.
I understand that Sir Sabry Pasha’s appointment by the King was made with the approval of Aly Maher Pasha who although out of office continues to enjoy the confidence of the King and to play an important role in Egyptian politics.