HC Deb 30 May 1911 vol 26 cc880-1
Mr. HUNT

asked the Secretary of State for Foregn Affairs whether his attention had been called to the great protest made by the Chamber of Shipping of the United Kingdom against the ratification of the Declaration of London; and whether, in view of the fact that the views of our overseas Dominions were not obtained before the declaration was signed, he would now call the attention of the Premiers of our overseas Dominions at the present Conference to the movement to prevent the Declaration of London being ratified?

Sir E. GREY

It has been repeatedly stated that the whole subject will be discussed at the Conference.

Mr. HOLT

May I ask my right hon. Friend whether he is aware that the Liverpool Steamship Owners Association and large numbers of steamship owners in the country are very anxious to have the Declaration ratified?

Sir E. GREY

It is quite true that at the Foreign Office we have received representations strongly in favour of the Declaration of London as well as on the other side.

Mr. HUNT

May I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether, when this is to be discussed at the Imperial Conference, he will point out the strenuous opposition of shipowners and the great majority of Admiralty experts of this country to the Declaration of London on account of the danger of starvation and other great dangers?

Sir E. GREY

The question of the views of particular individuals is one for themselves to make known.

Mr. MITCHELL-THOMSON

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether the discussion will be on a formal Resolution or whether it will be more or less informal?

Sir E. GREY

It will be discussed at the Conference, and not at the private proceedings of the Committee of Defence. I understand it conies up at the Conference on notice which has been given by the Government of Australia, but exactly what form the discussion will be of course I cannot foretell.

Major ANSTRUTHER-GRAY

Will this House have an opportunity of discussing it?

Sir E. GREY

That has been repeatedly stated.