HC Deb 30 November 1911 vol 32 c566
Mr. HUNT

asked whether, in view of the fact that he cannot guarantee that there is a single port in the United Kingdom which, under the Declaration of London, a foreign Power might not hold to be a base of supply for our armed forces, he will reconsider his decision and refuse to ratify the Declaration of London?

Sir E. GREY

There would be more guarantees with the Declaration of London than without; it would therefore be undesirable to reconsider the decision.

Mr. HUNT

May I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether, in view of the fact that we have no definite assurances from any foreign Power that they will put the same construction upon Articles 34 and 35 that he does, is he going to risk the starvation of our Fleet in time of war on an unknown decision?

Mr. SPEAKER

Surely that is a matter for argument; the hon. Member is raising a debate.

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