Mr. ALFRED T. DAVIESasked the Prime Minister whether delay to British steamships, such as the "Imperator," and consequent loss to British steamship companies, has been caused at New York or other American ports for which the United States Government is liable; whether representations on this matter have been made by His Majesty's Government; whether any claim has been laid against the United States Government in the nature of indemnity for such loss; and, if not, whether it is proposed to make such representations and claim?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWConsiderable loss has been caused to the British Government by the retention of the steamers in question after the completion of the United States services in which they were engaged. Representations in this matter have been made to the United States Government by the Ministry of Shipping, and the question whether a claim should be presented is being considered.