HL Deb 26 January 1916 vol 20 cc1036-7
VISCOUNT TEMPLETOWN

My Lords, I rise to ask His Majesty's Government whether they will consider re-enacting the Navigation Law as against Germany and her Allies; or, as an alternative, whether they will exclude German ships altogether from British ports.

THE DUKE OF DEVONSHIRE

My Lords, the Question which has been asked by the noble Viscount opposite raises several points of broad general principle and policy, and the matter is one which I know has occupied and is occupying the attention not only of your Lordships but of the country as a whole. Your Lordships will be aware that a memorable debate took place on January 10 in the House of Commons; that debate contained a remarkable speech from my right hon. friend the President of the Board of Trade, who then clearly and I think in unmistakable language laid down what is the policy of His Majesty's Government. I will quote one sentence, and one sentence only, which I think accurately and clearly summarises the view of His Majesty's Government. The sentence to which I refer is this— At any rate we must see to it that, having ended this war victoriously, we do not give Germany a chance of reconstructing her commercial position. Whether the method suggested by the noble Viscount—namely, the re-enacting of the Navigation Law—is the most desirable and most suitable way, of attaining that object is a matter which is open to consideration, and, I venture to think, to some doubt. But as far as our main object is concerned I believe we are all at one; and I hope the noble Viscount will rest assured that the whole of the subject is receiving the constant and anxious attention of His Majesty's Government. Whether we proceed on the line, suggested in the Question or whether in consultation with those with whom we have been waging this war—our Allies and our Colonies and Dependencies—we shall most unquestionably bear in view that this war, on which we have spent so much, shall not have been in vain; and we shall not allow Germany to achieve any commercial victories after she has been defeated in the field and on the sea.