1895 statement on French expansion in Africa Edward Grey, 1st Viscount Grey of Fallodon

grey in 1895

prior foreign office vote on 28 march 1895, grey asked lord kimberley, new foreign secretary, direction how should answer question french activities in west africa. according grey, kimberley suggested pretty firm language. in fact, west africa not mentioned, when pressed on possible french activities in nile valley grey stated french expedition unfriendly act , viewed england. according grey subsequent row both in paris , in cabinet made worse failure of hansard record statement referred explicitly nile valley , not africa in general. statement made before dispatch of marchand expedition—indeed, believed might have provoked it—and grey admits did damage future anglo-french relations.

the liberal party lost key vote in house of commons on 21 june 1895, , grey among majority in party preferred dissolution continuing. seems have left office few regrets, noting, shall never in office again , days of stay in house of commons numbered. [he , wife] both glad , relieved.... liberals soundly defeated in subsequent general election, although grey added 300 votes own majority. remain out of office next ten years, sworn of privy council on 11 august 1902, following announcement of king´s intention make appointment in 1902 coronation honours list published in june year.

he appointed deputy lieutenant of northumberland in 1901.