HC Deb 18 June 1941 vol 372 c619
2 and 3. Major-General Sir Alfred Knox

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs (1) whether the marine lighthouses, harbours and pilotage departments in China are still controlled by the Inspector of Customs;

(2) whether the Inspector-General of the Customs in China exercises control over the Customs in occupied areas?

The Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Eden)

The Inspector-General of the Chinese Maritime Customs appointed by the Chinese Government continues to administer the Customs service throughout China, including the Marine Department, which deals with lighthouses, aids to navigation and harbour services. In the Japanese occupied areas, however, he has to take into consideration the requirements of the occupying Power. Harbour control and pilotage in the occupied ports have largely been taken over by the Japanese naval authorities, either independently or acting through the Customs administration.

Sir A. Knox

Does the right hon. Gentleman realise that Sir Frederick Maze is putting up a single-handed fight for our interest in the Far East, and will he do everything possible to help him?

Mr. Eden

I will certainly join my hon. and gallant Friend in paying the warmest possible tribute to the work Sir Frederick Maze is doing.