§ 7. Mr. KINGasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether a military convention with the United States has been concluded or is in contemplation whereby Conscription for military service may be enforced on the subjects of either country in the other's territories; and, if not, whether and for how long negotiations have been pending on this subject?
Mr. BALFOURYes, Sir; a military service convention between this country and the United States of America was signed at Washington on 19th February last. The instrument, however, must be ratified by the King and the President of the United States before it becomes operative, and, as the hon. Member is doubtless aware, the President of the United States may only ratify a treaty with the consent of the Senate, which body is still considering the convention. It is, however, hoped that the convention may be ratified shortly.