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objection to a neutral exporting unassembled aircraft
to a belligerent by rail or as part cargo (in the latter
event they would normally be contraband), but clearly
as in the present instance, belligerents will often prefer
to have their aircraft delivered from neutral factories
by direct flight. Under the Hague Draft Rules (Article 46),
the aircraft could only be allowed to proceed unarmed
and in such circumstances that they could not be fitted
for hostile operations before completing their journey,
but the Hague Draft Rules are not at present binding and
it seems desirable to consider, as a matter of policy,
whether or not we should encourage the formulation of an
obligation on such lines. Spaight in his book "Air
Fower and Far Rules" (Second Edition, page 450), suggests
an even stricter rule which would involve the prevention
of the departure of any complete aircraft fitted to take
offensive weapons, even if none had actually been
installed.
Probably you have already given consideration
to this question. In any event it may become of importance
in the next year or so, if an international conference
on air limitation takes place, and the Hague Draft dules
come under examination,a,
4.
If this is not a question for you would you
be kind enough to pass this letter on to the right
quarter.
5.
Copies of this letter are being sent to
the Foreign Office, War Office, Colonial Office, Board
of Trade and Burma Office.
Yours sincere
Agd.) 4.
J. Jarrett