HC Deb 16 July 1914 vol 64 cc2112-3
79. Mr. KING

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether a special set of rules and regulations has been formulated to apply to those merchant vessels armed by the Admiralty; and, if so, whether such rules and regulations have been, or will be, published?

Mr. LAMBERT

Yes, Sir. Rules have been formulated, but for obvious reasons it is undesirable that they should be made public.

Mr. KING

Are they supplied to commanding officers, and are they understood alone by the crews of these ships?

Mr. LAMBERT

Perhaps the hon. Gentleman would put that down.

80. Mr. KING

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he has considered the view that the arming of merchant vessels for use in warfare is a breach of the law and customs of nations, and especially against the rules laid down by The Hague Convention of 1907; and whether this question will be submitted to the next Hague Conference?

Mr. LAMBERT

I am advised that the view referred to in the first part of the question is incorrect. Whether the subject will be submitted at the next Hague Conference is a question requiring consi2deration, and cannot be answered at the present time.

Mr. KING

Is it having consideration?

Mr. LAMBERT

Oh, yes, Sir; it is having the consideration it requires.