HC Deb 17 July 1873 vol 217 cc500-1

Answer to Address [8th July] reported, as follows:—

V.R. I have received your Address praying that I will be graciously pleased to instruct My Principal Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs to enter into communication with Foreign Powers, with a view to further improvement in International Law, and the establishment of a general and permanent system of International Arbitration. I am sensible of flee force of the philanthropic motives which have dictated your Address. I have at all times sought to extend, both by advice and by example, as occasion might offer, the practice of closing controversies between Nations by submission to the impartial judgment of friends, and to encourage the adoption of International Rules intended for the equal benefit of all. I shall continue to pursue a similar course, with due regard to time and opportunity, when it shall seem likely to be attended with advantage.