The Persian Gulf Gazette was instituted as the administration of British interests in the Gulf entered a new phase - and the final phase of direct involvement in government. The policy directives of the Foreign Office to the Political Resident in 1953 reflected the changing British role - perhaps more accurately than was realised: harmonise with US policy; maintain good relations with Saudi Arabia; resolve territorial disputes; encourage co-operation among the Gulf States. In the past the British aim had been government, disguised as advice; now it was no more than the hope of influence - disguised as assistance.
