§ 53. Mr. MILLARasked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the fact that the American Government intend to issue orders to vessels belonging to the American fleet to assist in preventing the landing in America of cargoes of rum and spirits, etc., carried by vessels engaged in rum-running and of the fact that large quantities of liquor are being consigned by British traders to British ports in the West Indies and elsewhere, which are being trans-shipped and carried along the American coasts on board vessels flying the British flag as well as by other vessels, he will say what steps he proposes to take to prevent the possibility of an armed conflict with vessels belonging to a friendly Power?
§ Mr. BALDWINI have no official information with regard to the alleged intention of the United States Government to use vessels of the United States navy for preventive work, but I hesitate to believe that a friendly Power would attack British ships on the high seas. If, however, British ships break United States laws within United States territorial waters, they naturally render themselves liable to any general measures of control which the United States Government may institute.
§ Mr. MILLARCan the Government do anything to encourage the recognition and enforcement of the laws of a friendly State by British subjects?
§ Mr. BALDWINThe British Government have every desire that their citizens should act in conformity with the laws of friendly States.
§ Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYHave the Government let it be known to the Governors of the islands there that they do not look upon this traffic with favour?