[3] An underground movement subsequently developed and published its proposals for reform in the Iraqi Az-Zaman newspaper on 3 April.
[3] Due to the unrest, the British Political Agent Gerald de Gaury was authorised to suggest to the sheikh that a council be created.
[3] After initially trying to undermine it by attempting unsuccessfully to offer privileges to members who would defect, he consented on 6 July and recognised it as the Legislative Council.
[4] However, the British felt that the powers given by the sheikh to the council were too broad, particularly making it responsible for approving foreign treaties and giving the speaker executive authority.
[3] A meeting was arranged with de Gaury, the sheikh, the Political Resident of the Persian Gulf and some members of the council on 15 October, at which it was agreed that the sheikh would have sole responsibility for negotiating and signing foreign agreements, but that they needed approval by the council to become law.