HC Deb 13 November 1911 vol 31 c3
Captain FABER

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether, in the event of this country being at war, vessels laden with grain could proceed without molestation to all English ports or only to those which were not bases of operations?

The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for FOREIGN AFFAIRS (Mr. Acland)

The risks run by neutral grain ships will depend on the rules of contraband recognised or issued at the time by the enemy. At present it is impossible to say what rules would be adopted. If the Declaration of London is in force, foodstuffs will be treated as conditional contraband only, and any vessel carrying grain will be liable to capture if the grain is destined for the British armed forces or for a British Government Department. The circumstances in which such destination may be presumed, subject to proof to the contrary are, as the hon. and gallant Member is aware, laid down in Article 34 of the Declaration.

Captain FABER

Is it not a fact that in an island like England, all the harbours are bases of operations?

Mr. ACLAND

It is not a fact.

Mr. SPEAKER

That is a matter which has been discussed at some length.