§ 18. Mr. RONALD McNEILLasked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign 170 Affairs whether the Government of the United States in its correspondence with the German Government and its protests against German violations of international law has confined itself to the consideration of American interests or whether, as the most powerful neutral nation, it has made any attempt to protect neutral rights in general or has protested against outrages committed against other neutral nations?
§ Lord R. CECILOur knowledge of the correspondence between the United States Government and Germany is derived from the documents that have been published. It is for the United States Government and not for His Majesty's Government to define its position in the matter. I can add nothing to what has been published.
§ 19. Mr. McNEILLasked whether, during the month of September, twenty-five Norwegian vessels were sunk by German submarines; and whether any action has been taken by any neutral Government with a view to the protection of neutral rights and the vindication of international law.
§ Lord R. CECILAccording to my information, at least twenty-eight Norwegian ships were sunk during September by enemy submarines. I am not sure how wide a scope the hon. Member intends to give to the second part of the question. There has, of course, been a large amount of correspondence between neutral and belligerent Governments during the War respecting real or supposed violations of the rights of neutrals and of international law. If the hon. Member wishes to pursue the matter into greater detail, I will see whether I can furnish such information as he may desire.