§ 40. Mr. HOUSTONasked the Prime Minister whether Great Britain and her Allies have demanded from Holland delivery of the German steamers which Dutch nationals have ostensibly purchased from German owners and which, in defiance of the terms of the Peace Treaty, have been taken to Dutch ports, notably the "Limburgia"; and, if so, what reply has been received from Holland?
Colonel WILSONI have been asked to reply. I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply which I gave on February 25th to a similar question put by the hon. Member for Chester.
§ Sir F. FLANNERYis the hon. Gentleman not aware that this transaction is regarded as a colourable evasion of the undertaking of Germany to give this tonnage to the disposal and service of the Allies?
Colonel WILSONNo, Sir; and as my hon. Friend is doubtless aware, this question was decided by the Supreme Council at a later date, and till the ratification of the Treaty the question of the taking over of those vessels is a matter for the Reparation Committee. As I stated in a former reply, that Committee is in communication with the German Government on the subject.