§ SIR RICHARD TEMPLE (Worcester, Evesham)asked the Under Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, Whether a British steamer has been detained by the Local Chinese Authorities at Tchang, near the rapids of the Yangtsze, contrary to the provisions of the Chefoo Convention, notwithstanding that the season for the vessel ascending the river is becoming urgent?
§ THE UNDER SECRETARY OF STATE (Sir JAMES FERGUSSON) (Manchester, N. E.)The information that has readied the Foreign Office is not in accordance with the terms of my hon. Friend's Question. Her Majesty's Minister in China has lately been exerting himself strenuously to induce the 870 Chinese Government to sanction the projected voyage of a steamer to Chung King, to which the Government and the British Consul in that district state that there is strong opposition from the Local Authorities and population. Sir John Walsham will continue his endeavours to overcome the hesitation of the Chinese Government.