§ MR. HUGH LAW (Donegal, W.)To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he has any official information to the effect that 700 opium houses in the native city of Shanghai had been closed, hut that similar houses in the Foreign settlements to the number of 1,920 remain open; and. if so, will he say what is the ground of the distinction; and whether he proposes to take any steps in the matter.
§ (Answered by Secretary Sir Edward Grey.) The reply to the first part of the Question is in the negative. According to the latest information received, discussions are still proceeding among the Chinese authorities as to the practical steps that should be taken in the native city; and meanwhile no action is being taken in the Foreign settlements. The Foreign municipal authorities have, however, stated their intention to support to the full extent of their power any practical measures that may be taken by the Chinese authorities. I have asked to be kept informed of any progress in the matter.