§ 49. Mr. CHORLTONasked the President of the Board of Trade what further action he proposes to take in view of the difficulty experienced in abrogating the Congo Basin Treaty?
§ Captain WALLACEHis Majesty's Government in the United Kingdom are advised that these treaties cannot be terminated or modified except with the consent of all the parties concerned. Among the foreign countries concerned are those which have ratified the St. Germain Convention of 1919, namely, Belgium, France, Italy, Japan, Portugal and the United States of America. His Majesty's Government regret that no effective steps appear open to them in the matter under existing conditions.
§ Mr. CHORLTONIn view of the immense amount of textile trade which has been lost in these countries, surely some further action will be taken?
§ Captain WALLACEI have already pointed out that it does not appear that any further action can be taken; but perhaps I might add that the amount of trade actually lost as the result of this Treaty, if you go into the figures, is rather less than many people suspect. If my hon. Friend likes to come and see me afterwards, I may be able to give him some more information.
§ Mr. HERBERT G. WILLIAMSIs my hon. and gallant Friend satisfied that the sole view of international lawyers is not represented by the Law Officers? Is it not well understood that no Treaty can be regarded as binding in perpetuity?