Resolution, moved by Shirley Benn, urged Government to enforce against enemy a blockade as effective as possible. In one of his comprehensive, quietly delivered and powerful speeches Edward Grey showed that situation is not so easily managed as amateur diplomatists below the Gangway believe, or as fractious newspapers, bent on damaging the Government even if the Empire falls, assert. Explained in detail steps taken by Foreign Office to deal with it. House listened critically but approvingly. Took note of fact that First Lord of Admiralty emphatically cheered denial of one of the malicious rumours current—that in the task of preventing supplies reaching the enemy the Foreign Office spoils the work of the Navy.
Sharp, almost angry burst of cheering greeted passage towards close of speech in which Foreign Secretary declared that maximum effort in this country, whether military, naval or financial, is at the disposal of our Allies in carrying on the War against Prussian militarism.
"With them," he confidently but still quietly said, "we will see it through to the end."
Speeches following expressed general satisfaction with this statement, supplemented by one addressed to neutrals. Courteously assured them of desire not to make things unnecessarily irksome. But pointed out that in the matter of preventing supplies reaching the enemy by circuitous routes Great Britain has her own work to do and means to do it thoroughly.
Business done.—Resolution advocating effective blockade talked out.
Thursday.—Parliament prorogued. Reversing Charles Lamb's conscientious habit at the India Office, where, having arrived late, he made up for it by going away early, Parliament, having toiled through exceptionally long Session, treats itself to briefest possible recess. Reassembles 15th February.
REDUCED IMPORT OF PAPER: WHAT WE MAY COME TO.
Mr. Runciman. "Ah, well, one misses the old wealth of flattery; still, one must make sacrifices for one's country!"