HC Deb 24 April 1884 vol 287 c454
MR. SALT

asked the Under Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, If he can supply any information as to the present position and claims of the French in Tonquin; and, whether British trade in the East is affected injuriously by the events that have recently occurred?

LORD EDMOND FITZMAURICE

Some communications of a strictly confidential character have recently passed in regard to the claims of the French in Tonquin; but I am not in a position to make any communication to the House. No complaints have reached the Foreign Office as to British trade having been injuriously affected.