Atributive clause

[ian2]

The most likely possible dangers are these: a complete collapse of Pakistani government rule that allows an extreme Islamist movement to fill the vacuum; a total loss of federal control over outlying provinces, which splinter along ethnic and tribal lines; ..."

The question: Is the clause "which splinter along ethnic and tribal lines" a description of the administrative division or the result of the loss of control? Personally I think it's the former. Thanks.

[2006]

Originally Posted by ian2

The most likely possible dangers are these: a complete collapse of Pakistani government rule that allows an extreme Islamist movement to fill the vacuum; a total loss of federal control over outlying provinces, which splinter along ethnic and tribal lines; ..."

The question: Is the clause "which splinter along ethnic and tribal lines" a description of the administrative division or the result of the loss of control? It refers to "outlying provinces".
Personally I think it's the former. Thanks.

2006

[ian2]

Originally Posted by 2006

2006

But that is not my question. I was asking whether the clause talks about the current make-up of the country or a result of the loss of control. I think it's the former rather than the latter.

[2006]

I did answer your question. That clause talks about outlying provinces.

[ian2]

Originally Posted by 2006

I did answer your question. That clause talks about outlying provinces.

Thanks.