HC Deb 25 July 1916 vol 84 cc1502-3
Mr. SHIRLEY BENN

(by Private Notice) asked the Under-Secretary for Foreign Affairs whether his attention has been drawn to the criticisms in the Press of the United States regarding the publication of the Statutory Black List, and whether he proposes to take any action thereon?

Lord R. CECIL

Yes, Sir, I have noticed the criticisms referred to. They appear to be largely based on misapprehension. The action taken by His Majesty's Government is not novel. The Act under which the Statutory List for the United States has recently been issued was passed last December, and lists have already been published referring to most neutral countries since then. Nor are the provisions of the Act unduly stringent. By the French law all persons of enemy nationality, wherever living, are enemies of France, whatever their conduct during the present War, and it is illegal for French subjects to trade with them. By the British law only those persons, whatever be their nationality, who have shown themselves hostile to this country are put upon the list of persons with whom British subjects may not deal. Nor do we seek by this list to affect the freedom of action of neutral citizens. All we have done is to declare that British shipping, British goods, and British credit should not be used for the support and enrichment of those who are actively assisting our enemies. If in the compilation of the list any persons have been unjustly included they will be removed; and, as I have more than once stated, great care will be taken in applying the law to existing contracts to avoid anything in the nature of injustice. I may add that we are informed that the German Government have taken action of a similar character.

Mr. HOUSTON

Is it not possible for our subjects abroad to be treated as France treats her subjects abroad?

Lord R. CECIL

That question was very carefully considered and discussed in this House last December. I do not think it would be possible for me within the limits of an answer to explain the reasons why we arrived at the conclusion that the course we adopted was the best and fairest.

Mr. HOUSTON

As it is very desirable, will the right hon. Gentleman have the matter again brought before the Government?

Lord R. CECIL

It has been brought before the Government.

Mr. HOUSTON

Again?

Lord R. CECIL

It has been brought before them quite recently.

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