Correspondence with Philip Kerr

Scope and Content

Correspondence with Philip Henry Kerr, eleventh marquess of Lothian (1882-1940), writer and politician, relating to a request for a meeting with Scott to discuss the current position in America, with reference to the ratification of the peace pact [Kellogg-Briand pact], which is granted. Also included is correspondence relating to the provision by Kerr of articles on the reception of speeches made by General [Jan Christian] Smuts, prime minister of South Africa and army officer, whom Kerr is accompanying on a visit to America, for publication in the Manchester Guardian, with discussion of the content of the articles, arrangements for their delivery, and related internal memoranda.

There is correspondence relating to an offer of a series of articles by Kerr entitled 'Socialism, capitalism and religion' with reference to the current economic situation, unemployment and the future of the liberal party for publication in the Manchester Guardian, which are accepted, and accompanied by internal memoranda discussing payment for the articles. Also included are a letter of praise for Kerr's articles from Henry P. Greg, who suggests that they might be made into a pamphlet, and a letter of complaint regarding Kerr's articles from George E. Collins, who suggests the publication of articles in response to Kerr's views, both of which are declined.

There is discussion of Kerr's concerns in relation to the naval conference of 1929, and the need to find a fair method of reducing naval power. There is also correspondence relating to the provision of a report by Kerr of a farewell dinner for Lionel Curtis, writer and public servant in Shanghai [in his role as adviser to the municipal council of the Shanghai international settlement].

GDN/A/K14/6 is an article entitled 'General Smuts; Coming Visit to America', 1929.

GDN/A/K14/19-21 are letters to the editor relating to articles by Kerr published in the Manchester Guardian on socialism, capitalism and religion in the Manchester Guardian, 1930.