§ MR. WEIR (Ross and Cromarty)I beg to ask the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he is aware that, under an agreement signed by the British and Chinese Corporation, Limited, and the Chinese Government on the 9th July last, the Corporation undertook to provide a capital of £3,250,000 for the construction of the Shanghai and Nanking Railway; will he state whether any steps have yet been taken with a view to raise the required capital; and will he ascertain when the work of construction is likely to be proceeded with.
§ EARL PERCYHis Majesty's Government are aware of the terms of the 1253 agreement as described by the hon. Member. The British and Chinese Corporation are at present discussing with the Chinese Board of Commissioners the necessary arrangements with a view to the flotation of the loan and the commencement of construction.