HC Deb 01 May 1911 vol 25 c34
Mr. CROFT

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether the RushBagot treaty is still in operation; and, if not, whether, in order to prevent any misunderstanding, he would consider the advisability of recommending the Canadian Government to announce that the treaty is abrogated?

Mr. HARCOURT

The answer to the first part of the question is Yes.

Mr. CROFT

May I ask, as the treaty has been broken so frequently, and is the cause of misunderstanding, whether it is his opinion that it would be better to end the treaty?

Mr. HARCOURT

I can hardly be expected to offer an opinion on the continuance of a treaty without notice.

Mr. CROFT

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that this treaty has been broken in every respect with regard to the number of ships and the tonnage of those ships, and whether he is not of the opinion that a treaty which has been broken is a positive danger to maintain?

Mr. HARCOURT

Perhaps the hon. Member would kindly give me notice of that question.