Despatch from Patrick McGilligan to J.H. Thomas (London)
(D.4714H) (No. 301) (Copy)

Sir,

I have the honour to transmit herewith the instrument of ratification in respect of the Irish Free State of the London Naval Treaty signed on 22nd April, 1930.

2. His Majesty's Government in the Irish Free State beg to advise His Majesty to sign the instrument of ratification.

3. I shall be much obliged if the instrument can be sent to Mr. Dulanty, High Commissioner, when it has been signed by the King so that Mr. Dulanty may deposit it at the Foreign Office in accordance with the procedure provided for in Article 24 of the Treaty.

4. In connection with the sealing of this instrument His Majesty's Government in the Irish Free State wish to recall the statement made by them at the Imperial Conference of this year. The manner of confirming the King's signature was for the Government concerned to decide. If it was decided to use seals the form of the seals was the exclusive concern of that Government. His Majesty's Government in the Irish Free State have not yet come to a final decision with regard to the manner in which the King's signature shall be confirmed in respect of the Irish Free State. They do not wish to delay the ratification of the Naval Treaty until such decision has been reached. The international situation and the frequently expressed desire of the Government of the United States impose upon them the obligation of not adding to the delay already caused by parliamentary requirements. In the circumstances His Majesty's Government in the Irish Free State have decided to regard the ratification of the Naval Treaty as part of a transaction which normally should have been completed before the Imperial Conference and hence before the formal statement of their view with regard to the use of the seals.

5. While His Majesty's Government in the Irish Free State are prepared in this instance not to press their objection to the use of the Great Seal of the United Kingdom they must not be regarded as having modified their view that the use of that seal on documents relating to the Irish Free State is contrary to the fundamental principles upon which the relations between the Irish Free State and the United Kingdom as Members of the British Commonwealth of Nations are based. I have the honour therefore to inform you that it is the intention of His Majesty's Government in the Irish Free State to adhere henceforth to the principles contained in the statement referred to.