2
In reply, I am to state that the Board could not undertake this task, in view of the heavy parliamentary work which is engaging their attention during the present session, and that they are of opinion that a measure of this character is not one which falls within their proper functions. These functions have regard to matters relating to the maintenance and promotion of the trade of the United Kingdom, whereas the measures contemplated by the convention are primarily designed to benefit the interests not of the United Kingdom, but of His Majesty's Eastern possessions and colonies. Their effect on the trade interests of this country is purely incidental and, so far as it goes, that effect must necessarily be of a restrictive character.
Mr. Harcourt will be aware that the Board of Trade were not represented at The Hague Convention and that their action in the matter was confined to indicating to the British delegates, both at informal meetings which took place before the conference assembled, and-whilst it was sitting--through the Foreign Office, how the restrictions necessitated by colonial and Indian interests could be imposed in such a way as to prove most effective, and at the same time inflict the minimum amount of damage to British manufacturers and traders.
The Board accordingly venture to suggest that the drafting of the necessary measures and their conduct through Parliament should be undertaken by one of the departments concerned with the possessions and colonies in whose interests the convention was concluded. They will, of course, be prepared to render all possible assistance to the department charged with the responsibility for the Bill, and if desired, to appoint representatives on any committee which may be appointed for the purpose of drafting it.
The Board are causing copy of your letter and of this reply to be sent to the Foreign Office for Sir E. Grey's information.
Ihave, &c.
H. LLEWELLYN SMITH.
Date.
1912
May.
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