HC Deb 16 April 1907 vol 172 cc766-7
MR. PIKE PEASE (Darlington)

I beg to ask the Secretary of State for India what steps have been taken by the Government of China to reduce the area of land now cultivated in China for the production of opium.

SIR EDWARD GREY

By Article 1 of the Regulations issued under the Imperial Decree of September 20th, 1906, no new ground can be placed under poppy cultivation, and that already under poppy cultivation must be reduced by one-tenth at least every year. If the regulation is evaded, the ground can be confiscated. A fresh decree was issued on 7th February last, with the object of securing greater uniformity in carrying out the existing regulations, and it is understood that it will be followed by further regulations prescribing the conditions under which the gradual diminution of cultivation is to be effected. I cannot yet say how far these decrees have been made effective.

MR. LYNCH

Have the Government at their dispoaal any machinery for ascertaining what the Chinese Government are really doing?

SIR EDWARD GREY

Yes, Sir; there are consular reports on the subject.

MR. LYNCH

I am informed that no opportunity is afforded of getting information.

MR. LUPTON (Lincolnshire, Sleaford)

Have the Indian Government made any corresponding regulations for the reduction of the growth of opium?

[No Answer was returned.]