§ DR. TANNERI beg to ask the Under Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether it is the intention of the Government to protect Newfoundland lobster factories from interference by the French during the coming season; and whether the Government will claim compensation for boats and nets, should any be destroyed by the crews of French fishermen in the absence of men-of-war?
§ * THE UNDER SECRETARY OF STATE FOR FOREIGN AFFAIRS (Sir J. FERGUSSON,) Manchester, N.E.Negotiations are in progress with the French Government, and will, it is hoped, be shortly brought to a satisfactory termination, for settling the conditions on which the lobster fisheries in Newfoundland shall be carried on during the ensuing season. Her Majesty's Government know of no reason to apprehend destruction of boats and nets by French 345 fishermen in this any more than in previous years; but in case of illegal damage to British property the matter would, of course, be treated between the two Governments in accordance with international law and usage.
§ DR. TANNERMay I ask the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he is aware that orders have been given to French officers to enter the lobster factories and confiscate the property of the fishermen?
§ LORD G. HAMILTONNo orders that I am aware of have been given to French officers in contravention of the Treaty.
§ DR. TANNERIf I put a question on the Paper will the noble Lord be good enough to answer it categorically?
§ LORD G. HAMILTONNo, Sir, I cannot undertake to do that.
§ DR. TANNERI shall put it.