HC Deb 27 June 1939 vol 349 cc214-5
Mr. Arthur Greenwood

(by Private Notice) asked the Prime Minister whether he has any further statement to make on the situation in the Far East?

The Prime Minister

As regards Tientsin, I have for the moment nothing to add to the statement which I made yesterday, but I hope to be in a position to make a further statement shortly. From information which has just been received from the Commodore-in-Charge at Hong Kong, it appears that the Japanese naval authorities have announced their intention of occupying to-day the ports of Foochow and Wenchow. Further details of these operations are being awaited.

Mr. Greenwood

Is it proposed to send any instructions with regard to the situation out there to the ships that may be affected, and does the right hon. Gentleman propose to seek the co-operation of other States whose ships are at Foochow and Wenchow, which may also be affected, and will the right hon. Gentleman say whether, in this growingly menacing situation, the Government are making progress in concerting proposals to deal with it?

The Prime Minister

I could not make a further statement on the spur of the moment. I have just got this information while I have been sitting on this bench, but all matters will be considered.

Mr. Maxton

When the Prime Minister says that he hopes to make a statement shortly, how soon does he mean? Does he mean some time later to-day?

The Prime Minister

No, Sir, I did not mean to-day.

Mr. Bellenger

In view of the fact that the situation is deteriorating, should not some indication of more definite action by His Majesty's Government be given by the Prime Minister? Will he give an answer, because many of us are seriously concerned about this matter?

Mr. Sandys

In view of the possibility of disturbances among the Chinese population of Tientsin as a result of rapidly rising food prices, can my right hon. Friend say whether any steps are being taken to keep down abnormally rising prices?

The Prime Minister

I have said already that steps will be taken, and that is being done.

Mr. Gallacher

How is it that what the Prime Minister calls "intolerable insults" are being tolerated?