20
were not represented at the Hague Conference 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 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.
aß
I have the honour to be,
sir,
Your obedient Servant,
Hilewallyn Smith
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.