HC Deb 22 June 1922 vol 155 cc1488-9
19. Sir WALTER de FRECE

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he will state the latest reports received from the British representatives in China as to the progress of Chinese national reconstruction and consolidation; and whether, as this result is most keenly desired by the commercial world as well as by all the friends of China, he will inquire whether there is any way in which this country could use its good offices to facilitate the smooth working of the developments which are now taking place?

The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for FOREIGN AFFAIRS (Mr. Cecil Harmsworth)

In reply to the first part of the question, I cannot add anything to the reply given yesterday to the hon. Member for Wirrall (Mr. Stewart). His Majesty's Government will of course lose no opportunity to use their good offices to facilitate the progress of Chinese national consolidation so far as they can do so consistently with their policy of nonintervention in the internal politics of China.

20. Sir W. de FRECE

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether, in view of the reconstruction of China on unified lines, he will expedite as much as possible the appointment of the international Commission which is to consider the question of the revision of the Chinese tariff, with the object of promoting the stability of the new Government and furnishing it with the necessary financial support to carry on?

Mr. HARMSWORTH

The Tariff Revision Commission is already in session in Shanghai.

Dr. MURRAY

Has the Chinese Government been informed as to what has become of the policy of reconstruction of the British Government?

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