§ Mr. FELLasked if the British Government has on several occasions declared that vessels engaged in the slave trade are pirates and can be captured as such, irrespective of any treaties; and if this declaration would by the Brussels Act be limited to vessels of under 500 tons?
§ Sir E. GREYWhatever declarations may have been made by the British Government in the past, and I am not aware of any, the right of visit, search, and detention is limited to vessels of under 500 tons by the Brussels Act.
§ Mr. GIBSON BOWLESIs the right hon. Gentleman not aware that the slave trade has been declared by Act of Parliament to be piracy?
§ Sir E. GREYI was not aware of that point at the moment, and I do not say that it is not so. I was asked a specific question as to declarations made by the British Government. I do not say there have not been such declarations. I only said I was not aware of any.
§ Mr. GIBSON BOWLESIs it proposed to take any steps to increase the amount of tonnage?
§ Sir E. GREYThe Amendment of the Brussels Act is under consideration at this moment, and, of course, if there is any reason to amend it in this respect that point will be considered.