23. Viscountess Astorasked the President of the Board of Trade whether, in view of the fact that the international Convention on the repatriation of seamen has now been ratified by 17 countries, including the maritime Powers, France, Belgium, Italy, China, Spain, and Germany, it is contemplated that this country will ratify in the near future?
Mr. StanleyI would refer the Noble Lady to the reply given by my predecessor to her question of 16th March last. The position of His Majesty's Government in regard to ratification of the Convention remains unchanged.
Viscountess AstorDoes not my right hon. Friend think it deplorable that the British Government have to be led by other Governments in ratifying this Convention which deals only with the question of repatriating seamen who have been wrecked?
Mr. StanleyIt has been clearly laid down by His Majesty's Government that they will reconsider the matter as soon as six of the principal maritime nations are prepared to do so. Only two of the six leading countries have done so.