Ships Trading Accept Risk

Manawatu Times, Volume 63, Issue 165, 15 July 1938, Page 5

Ships Trading Accept Risk

Protection Cannot be Given “SAFE PORT” REJECTED (British Official Wireless) RUGBY, July 13. An Important statement was made in .he House of Commons by the Prime Minister, Mr Neville Chamberlain, regarding communications with Burgos respecting the bombing of British ships off Spain. Mr Chamberlain recalled that Britain had found it necessary to ask Burgos to explain the exact meaning attached to its disclaimer of any intention to make deliberate attacks on British shipping. The reply, which had now been received, stated that the attacks on British ships in Spanish ports had not been deliberate. “The reply goes on to say that ships not engaged in contraband trade which enter such dangerous zones voluntarily expose themselves to the consequence* of their own temerity,” Mr Chambrlain proceeded, “and it adds that attacks in which they are involved are not directed against them but againsl objectives in tbe enemy ports in which they lie. “This country has passed legislation prohibiting British ships from carrying arms to any port in Spain, and the Government has made It plain that it cannot accept as legitimate the bombing and sinking by aircraft of merchant shipping. “At the same time, ships trading in the war zone must accept tho risks which are the inevitable result of the state of war in Spain. Effective protection cannot be guaranteed them unless this country is prepared to take an active part In the hostilities. The Government, In our view, would not be justified in recommending such a course, which might result In the spread ef the conflict far beyond its present limits. “While any military action in such a situation is precluded, the Government is not prepared to acquiesce in a repetition of attacks of a certain character. “With regard to a safe port at Almeria,” Mr Chamberlain said, “while appreciating that the suggestion was put forward with a view to finding some solution to the present situation, the Government has found that the difficulties and disadvantages of the proposal are very great and has ascertained that the Spanish Government regards the proposals as unacceptable. II is doubtful, therefore, whether it can be proceeded with. “I may add that Sir Hodgson, British agent in General Franco’s Spain, Is remaining in London for the time being/ AERIAL BOMBARDMENTS INTERNATIONAL COMMISSION FALLS THROUGH LONDON, July 13. In the House of Commons, Mr Chamcertain said that for various reasons he :ad found it impossible to arrange the Armation of an international commlsion to inquire into aerial bombardneats in Spain. The Government proposed to dispatch a commission of twe Britishers at the earliest possible menent.