A FIRM REPLY

Press, Volume LI, Issue 15174, 12 January 1915, Page 7

A FIRM REPLY

NO SURRENDER OF PRINCIPLE

(Received January 11th. 5.15 p.m.) LONDON. January 10. Sir Edward Grey, in his interim re-

ply to tho American Note, s-ays , that he is prepared to admit that foodstuffe should not be interfered with unless they are intended for belligerent armies. America's prohibition of the publication' of shipping masi/ests for thirty days increaeed the difficulty of detecting contraband. Tho.British. Government will gladly ent«r into an arrangement to avoid mistakes and promptly recompense neutrals for improper detention. It is imperative that Britain should stop copper shipments not genuinely destined for neutrals. The GoTernment has positive evidence that four Swedish consignments were destined for Germany. The Government is unable to believe that the United States would question the propriety of taking suspected cargoes to a prize court. *

In regard to foodstuffs. Sir Edward Grey is unable to give an unconditional undertaking in view of the eneimy's departure from the accepted rules of civilisation and humanity a&d an uncertainty about such rules being violated in tho future. Tt is essential to bring to port all vessels suspected of carrying contraband. The Government placed cotton on tho frco list, yot they have received information that cottoncarrying ehir** are specially selected to carry concealed contraband. Tho reply affirms Britain's intention to examine suoli suspected vessels.

It is impossible for Britain to permit the export of rubber to America unless the latter admits Britain's right to eubmit rubber cargoes exported from America to a Prize. Court. There is a growing danger of neutrals contiguous to the enemy becoming a. base of supplies for the enemy. Britain will endeavour to prevent the danger by intercepting- goods intended for tho enemy without interfering with those which are bona fido neutral.

(Received January llth. 11.30 p.m.) .LONDON, Jamiarv 11.

"The Times" in a leader says that Sir Edward Grey's reply to tho American Note seems excellent in substance and tone, and "wo feel confident that the Note will have a friendly reception across the Atlantic. It reserves rights vital for our defence. "We believe this position will be understood and appreciated in tho United States."