asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what is the position in international law as to the extent of territorial waters; how many States recognise the definite three-mile limit; how many States do not recognise this limit; and what was the conclusion reached on this subject at the Barcelona Conference in March and April, 1921?

The only rule which can be said to have received general recognition as defining the extent of territorial waters is that prescribing a limit of three miles drawn from low-water mark. My hon. Friend understands, however, that a number of States have at different times claimed to exercise jurisdiction for various specific purposes over a wider limit. No conclusion was reached on this subject at the Barcelona Conference.

In view of the very great importance of this matter to us as a maritime Power, will the Government consider the calling of an international conference finally to settle this very difficult question?

Has this country at any time, with any nation, recognised any limit outside the three miles limit?

Not that I am aware of.

Did not one of the hon. and gallant Gentleman's colleagues, in answer to a question yesterday, show that in Ceylon there is a limit of 12 to 20 miles claimed by the British Government?

That is under very special conditions, as the hon. Member will see from the answer to another question to-day.

Is there any country which claims more than a three-miles limit which does not do so for very special reasons?

Have any foreign subjects been seized by the British Government for infringing this rule?