North Africa

The crisis in Egypt (TIME, Dec. 1 and below) focused attention on the holdings of other Powers on the northern shore of Africa.

In Paris, Lord Crewe, British Ambassador to France, called at the Quai d'Orsay and was received by Premier Herriot. According to reliable information, the two distinguished statesmen discussed African policy.

At the same time came news from:

Tripoli. In 1911, a quarrel broke out between Turkey and Italy. The latter established an army in Tripoli (a country nearly twice the size of Texas), at that time a Turkish vilayet--and issued a decree annexing it. War continued until 1912, when the Treaty of Ouchy was signed, granting Italy sovereignty over the country.

Italy's troubles were not over, however. She had now to conquer the Arabs--a job which she prosecuted indifferently until the outbreak of the War, when it had to be given up altogether. After the War, the Italians again campaigned against the Arabs and gradually (especially since the Fascist regime came into power) extended their authority.

Last week, came the news that Colonel Mezzetti had captured the important position of Sirte, thus completing "the process of reestablishing Italian authority over the whole seaboard of Tripoli" and reaffirming "the complete sovereignty over those regions which is Italy's right and duty."

Tunis. At Paris, a conference between Premier Herriot, Lucien Saint (the French President General of Tunis) and a number of French officials aired the troubles which have long been plaguing the country.

Control of the Government of Tunis is exercised by the Tunisian Department of the Quai d'Orsay in the name of His Highness Sidi Mohammed el Habib Bey, usually called the Bey of Tunis--a sovereign prince. While the French have established schools, stimulated production and industry, improved finances, they have been unable to secure to the natives any political rights. Thus, in theory, the Bey is an absolute despot.

Of recent years, the country (about the size of Alabama), steeped in ignorance, has become a hotbed of Communist agitation; and many and violent have been the troubles. To end this alarming state of affairs, therefore, the Resident General was empowered by the French Government to inform the Bey that the way to combat Communism is by granting the people fundamental liberties.

Morocco. Another sore spot on the fringe of Africa is the Spanish zone in Morocco. According to the latest news, the Spanish troops have evacuated the hinterland and are now in solid possession of the coast. Director Primo Rivera intends, it was said, to lay down an armed and economic blockade of the country with a view to forcing the rebels into submission and opening the way for a peaceful penetration at a later date.