CONFIDENTIAL already done so, to take urgent action to legislate against the evil practice of slavery. The Federal Government had no power to legislate itself on this matter, but could only urge the State authorities to do so. 9. The Federal Advocate General has prepared a model law, copies of which have been forwarded by the Federal Government to all member States for their consideration. So far the Lahej State Council has enacted legislation based on the model, Beihan has passed a law of its own, and three other States of the Iederation are considering legislation on the lines of the model. Other states have taken the line that there is little point in bringing their laws into compliance with the requirements of the Convention, since to all intents and purposes the problem of slavery does not exist in their territory. Arabian Department August 13, 1964. CONFIDENTIAL
