HC Deb 04 May 1915 vol 71 c979
22. Sir J. LONSDALE

asked the Prime Minister whether, having regard to the fact that the exportation of raw cotton from this country has been prohibited, except to the Allied Powers and to Spain and Portugal, it is the intention of the Government to continue to allow British merchant ships to convey raw cotton and other materials from countries abroad to neutral ports whence the goods can be easily transported to Germany?

Mr. WALTER REA (Lord of the Treasury)

British merchant vessels coming from foreign ports are dealt with in accordance with the notice published in the supplement of the "London Gazette" of 12th March last; and every effort is being made to prevent seaborne commodities of all kinds from reaching Germany through neutral ports.

Sir J. LONSDALE

Do the Government propose to make cotton absolute contraband?

Mr. REA

The hon. Member had better put the question down.