§ 54. Sir JOHN LONSDALEasked the Prime Minister whether, having regard to the existing deficiency in the number of ships available for the purposes of British commerce, the Government will adopt measures, and if necessary obtain legislative power, to prevent British ships from carrying cargoes of food-stuffs and other materials to any ports in Europe except those of the United Kingdom or the Allied Powers unless by special permits from the Board of Trade, such permits to be issued only in cases where satisfactory guarantees are forthcoming that the goods carried to neutral ports are not destined for and will not reach enemy countries?
Mr. RUNCIMANMy right hon. Friend has asked me to answer this question. I do not think that the adoption of the particular measures suggested in the question would produce a satisfactory result, but the hon. Baronet may rest assured that all practicable steps are taken and will be taken to prevent goods destined for enemy countries being carried in British ships.