§ 2. Mr. Manderasked the Minister of Economic Warfare what steps are being taken to prevent the passage across the Black Sea of oil destined for Germany by the Danube?
§ The Minister of Economic Warfare (Mr. Cross)In the absence of any Contraband Control in the Black Sea, it is not possible to prevent the passage of oil across that sea for Germany. Under the Montreux Straits Convention, belligerent warships cannot pass through the Straits into the Black Sea while Turkey is a neutral except in circumstances which do not now apply.
§ Mr. ManderCan the Minister say when the Government will take steps to stop this traffic and tighten up the blockade generally? It is abominable that this should go on day after day.
§ Mr. KirkwoodArising from the original reply, namely, that we cannot 1782 stop the oil from going across the Black Sea, I want to know where this oil is coming from. Have we the right to police the entire seas of the world?
§ Mr. CrossThe hon. Member is, of course, referring to Russian oil passing across the Black Sea either through the mouth of the Danube or to Odessa. I do not know what the hon. Member has in mind in his question. Is he suggesting that the Montreux Convention is in some way to be flouted? If so, I think I can only refer him to the Foreign Office.
§ Mr. ManderIs it not the case that I have pointed out to the hon. Gentleman that under international law this can be done? Perhaps I may have an opportunity of referring to it again this afternoon.