646
Trade's letter of September 26th that questions of a similar character would shortly be brought before the Courts of Law with a view to obtaining judicial decisions, Lord Lansdowne considered that the moment was hardly opportune for consulting the Law Officers of the Crown in the matter.
I am at the same time, to observe that the questions involved, which depend largely upon the interpretation of the Merchant Shipping Act 1894, do not primarily involve international considerations at all, and seem to be rather within the special purview of the Board of Trade than of this Department.
Should, however, Mr. Lyttelton deem it desirable to obtain the views of the Law Officers of the Crown or to request the Board of Trade to do so, Lord Lansdowne would be glad to be eventually furnished, for his confidential information with a copy of any report or opinion which they may tender upon the subject.
I am,
Sir,
Your most obedient,
humble Servant,
E. ... Campbell