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7. The principal Provincial officials at present have connections in the h’gh-
est quarters and little local sympathy. A new Governor General arrived early in
the year, who is related to one of the Shah’s wives. His cousin is in charge of
the Finance Department. The Director of the Municipality is a brother of one of
the highest officials in the Ministry for Foreign Affairs. The General Officer in
command of the troops, who wields the highest influence in the Province, has now
held the post for several years. None of these officials has any personal interest
in Shiraz or in the Province.
8. Foreign residents are still apt to be treated with suspicion by local officials,
though an outward semblance of friendship is maintained. But officials in general
and notables are prohibited from dealings with the Consulate. No incidents have
occurred during the year in which foreign subjects were involved.
9. The attempt at westernisation of the country has proceeded vigorously in
Shiraz. Following on the imposition of European dress on dwellers in town and
village, the unveiling of women has been accomplished almost universally and with
surprising absence of disturbance. The “ chuddur ” is practically never seen in
the streets of Shiraz now. Shuch women as object, mostly of the older generation,
keep to their houses. Any opposition which there may have been seems to have
died down. Early in the year receptions were given at which officials and members
of guilds and trades paraded with their wives. Public baths and conveyances
were closed to veiled women, but the example set by the womenfolk of the large
garrison did much to effect the change amongst the civilian population.
10. There are still a good many mullahs to be seen about in turban and abba
but the number has been reduced. Their influence and prestige seems for the pre
sent to have disappeared with the transfer of many of their functions to other ad
ministrative departments and the prohibition of public religious observances such
as muharrem processions and public prayers.
11. The attention of the younger generation has been turned to athletics, foot
ball and other outdoor games. A Boy Scout troop, 700 strong, has been organised
in Shiraz which received the visit of colleagues from Isfahan towards the close of
the year. Military drill has been taught to the senior members of the High School
by instructors from the local barracks.
Tribal affairs.
12. Nothing of note has occurred during the year amongst the Qashgai or
Khamseh tribes. At the end of the year there were rumours of restlessness amongst
the Boir Ahmedi of Kuhgilu, who resent the activities of the authorities to settle
the tribes in defined areas. Very little progress has been made as yet in actual
settlement except at Tul-i-Khosrau where buildings have been put up as permanent
swellings for nomad settlers. The tribes are all controlled under military governors,
but much migration still takes place at the usual seasons. The economic conse
quences of complete prohibition are doubtless realised.
13. Hoad Guard services have been extended still more during the year and
security exists on all the main roads, except for occasional incidents in remoter
districts.
14. The Qawam-ul-Mulk has married his eldest son to a daughter of the Shah.
It is believed that they may take up residence in Shiraz. The Qawam himself
together with many of his near relatives and those of the late Saulet-ed-Douleh
continues to live in Tehran.
15. The Qawam’s Munshi A term used in the Middle East, Persia and South Asia to refer to a secretary, assistant or amanuensis. Munshis were employed in the British administration in the Gulf. bashi, a wealthy man, who disappeared in 1935 and
was given out to have been murdered or to have committed suicide, is believed
to be in prison in Tehran. His house at Shiraz was taken over by the Governor
General for use as his headquarters.
Local administration.
16. The five members of the Mejliss for Fars continue to be Mohammed Mehdi
Namazian (formerly Namazi), Hadlji Ghulam Hussein Malek, Mohammed Taqui
Shankai Shirazi, Ahmed Kawami and Hadji Seyyed Abu Taleb Kazeruni.
17. His Excellency Abul Fath Doulatshahi arrived early in the year as Gover
nor General of Fars, his predecessor having been appointed Minister of Communica
tions. He was previously for many years Governor of Tehran. He is less popular
in the Province and less energetic than his predecessor, while his personal debts