HC Deb 02 July 1935 vol 303 cc1706-7
41. Sir CECIL HANBURY (for Major MILLS)

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he can make any statement as to the progress of the consideration by the Council of the League of Nations of the question of the discharge of oil into the sea from ships?

Mr. EDEN

This question is at present being dealt with, on the instructions of the Council, by the Communications and Transit Organisation of the League of Nations in accordance with the procedure outlined in the reply given to my hon. Friend the Member for Brighton (Sir C. Rawson) on 18th February.

Sir WILLIAM DAVISON

Is my right hon. Friend aware that during these long continued negotiations our coasts continue to be polluted with this oil and thousands of sea birds are daily dying of starvation owing to their feathers being clogged with this horrible stuff, so that they cannot get about and get their food?

Mr. EDEN

My hon. Friend may be sure that we shall do all we can to hasten matters, but it does not rest with us alone.