§ 1. Mr. RANKINasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what has been the result of his representations in connection with the appeal of the British steamship "Datchet" against the fine of £2,200 imposed by the Spanish authorities for a breach of the Customs regulations; whether there have been other similar incidents in connection with British trade with Spain during the current year; and whether he is satisfied that everything possible has been done to protect British interests?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for FOREIGN AFFAIRS (Sir John Simon)Two-thirds of the fine inflicted on the steamship "Datchet" have been remitted and His Majesty's Ambassador at Madrid is continuing to press for the return of the remaining third. Two similar cases have been brought to the knowledge of His Majesty's Government in the United Kingdom during the present year. In the first case, which 1626 involved a sum of less than £10, two-thirds of the fine were remitted, and no further action has been taken. As regards the second case, Sir George Grahame has addressed a Note to the Spanish Government in support of the appeal by the agents of the vessel against the imposition of a fine amounting to nearly £20. As regards the third part of the question, I have no hesitation in replying in the affirmative.