HC Deb 27 July 1916 vol 84 cc1839-40
6. Mr. GINNELL

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs why Parliament was not consulted before the issue of the British Black List of proscribed business firms in neutral countries; when will all the correspondence on this subject be submitted to Parliament; and whether he can undertake that no further aggressive action will be taken by this Government until Parliament has been consulted?

Lord R. CECIL

Parliament was consulted as to the issue of the list presumably referred to when the Trading With the Enemy (Extension of Powers) Act was passed, and unanimously approved the policy. It is not proposed at present to lay on the Table any correspondence on the subject. There has been no aggressive action. The last part of the question, therefore, does not arise.

Mr. GINNELL

Is the Noble Lord aware of the strong resentment in America against this list?

Lord R. CECIL

I know there has been some Press criticism on the subject, and I have already answered questions upon it.