At the meeting of the British Committee of the International Bureau for Suppression of the White Slave Traffic there was a demonstration of the power of crystallizing different National organizations. The Bureau is strong in its members and leaders and especially its General Secretary, Wm. Alex. Coote, who has visited every capital in Europe and organized National Committees in every country except Turkey. He has won Royal recognition in Germany in having presented to him by the Emperor of Germany a diamond monogram as a recognition of his efforts on behalf of German girls. The President of the French Republic has made him a Chevalier of the Legion of Honor. King Alfonso of Spain has made him a Cabellero of the Order of Charles III.
At this day's meeting, W. F. Craies, Esq., legal advisor presided. Reports were read from different countries.
From Sweden, came the word that the Princess Royal had accepted the Presidency of the National Committee and attended nearly every Committee meeting, which was a guarantee and stimulus to the success of the work. Efforts for legislation and plans for assisting girl travelers are among the good works.
From Switzerland, among other good methods for defeating vice, Government has legislated against the abuse of the Poste Restante, providing that no minor can be allowed to receive correspondence without a permit or authorization from parents.
From Germany, fifteen traffickers had been condemned and forty-two girls re-patriated as some of the results of their National Committee. They are also working toward strengthening their laws.
From Egypt came news of development in spite of many difficulties. Seven hundred fifty-nine girls of minor age had been stopped and placed in hands of their respective Consuls, 485 of them being Greeks. Three hundred ten girls have been rescued. Forty-six souteneurs denounced, 22 of whom are exiled. Thirty minors were re-patriated.
Canada has a strong new law that with the impulse of the International Council of Women held in June brings the question squarely to the front.
From the United States reports showed aggressive work on the part of voluntary organizations, state's attorneys, and federal attorneys in vigorous law enforcement, and effective new laws enacted, with good hope of further legislation, and some diligence in educational plans through public gatherings, and sending literature where it has proven to be the needed help in many communities.
Mr. Coote referred to the deputation to the Home Office of March 30, which had been fully reported at a previous meeting. He regretted now that owing to other urgent matters before Parliament their bill which met such encouragement might not be brought forward at the present session.
Plans were made for delegates to the Congress of the International Bureau to be held in Madrid in May, 1910.