§ 3. Sir J. D. REESasked what steps are taken to prevent the repairing and escape of enemy ships interned in neutral ports, and the return of their crews to the enemy fighting line?
§ Sir E. GREYThe actual steps taken in each case are within the discretion of the neutral Power concerned. Probably the most usual course would be to remove parts of the machinery and to set limits to the movements of officers and men.
§ Sir J. D. REESAre we to understand steps are being taken?
§ Sir E. GREYNo, I cannot say in every neutral country what steps are being taken by the Government concerned. It is only the Government of the neutral country that can take steps; the steps are within its own discretion.
§ Sir EDWARD CARSONHave any ships escaped?
§ Sir E. GREYAfter they have been actually interned?
§ Sir E. CARSONYes.
§ Sir E. GREYI cannot say without notice.
§ Sir J. D. REESHas representation been made to America to that effect?
§ Sir E. GREYPerhaps the hon. Gentleman will give notice of any specific question. I am not aware that there is any cause for anxiety as to the escape of any ship actually declared interned by any neutral Power. If there were cause for anxiety we would, of course, make representation to the neutral Power concerned.