Of matters that have assumed or may be anticipated to assume a diplomatic
or political aspect and that seem to require a speedy decision, the
Consul has to send the Minister for Foreign affairs an exact statement.
This proceeding shall particularly be observed in case of an infringement
of international agreements; of obstacles raised by the local authorities
to the Consul's discharge of his official duties; of troubles for
warships in foreign ports; of illegitimate confiscation of traders; of
arbitrary imprisonment of citizens; of difficulties originating from
outbreak of war or insurrection; and of reclamations already committed to
diplomatic treatment, but requiring a speedy acquirement of additional
information.
In matters of this kind where there is reason to apprehend lest a
negligence of immediate interference should convey considerable
inconveniences, the Minister for Foreign affairs can make direct
inquires of, and give direct injunctions to a Consul concerning the
diplomatic or political side of the matter.
The Consul must not refuse to submit to an inquiry or an injunction
addressed to him by the Minister for Foreign affairs, because of finding
the matter in question not to be of the kind alluded to above.