No. 182.
Sir
Edward Thornton to Mr. Fish.
Washington, March 8, 1873.
(Received March 8.)
Sir: I have the honor to inclose for your
information a copy of a report of the committee of the privy council of
Canada which I have received from the governor-general of the Dominion, and
which recommends that American vessels should not be prevented from fishing
within the three-mile limit before the act of Congress giving effect to the
articles of the treaty of Washington relating to Canada comes into effect,
on the first of July next.
I have, &c.,
[Inclosure.]
The committee of the privy council beg leave to report to your excellency
that the act of Congress giving effect to the treaty of Washington does
not come into force till 1st July next.
Until that time American fishermen have no legal right to fish in
Canadian waters, and their vessels are liable to seizure for doing
so.
The committee are, however, of opinion that no steps should be taken by
the government to prevent American vessels from fishing within the
three-mile limit, and they should have full permission to fish so far as
the government can grant it.
It is not probable that any seizures will be made before the 1st of July
at the instance of private parties, but should such a case occur, the
committee will be prepared to advise your excellency to order the
release of the vessel, and the remission of any penalties incurred.
All of which is respectfully submitted.
JOHN O’CONNOR.
March 3, 1873.
