HC Deb 31 August 1926 vol 199 cc140-1
Mr. MacDONALD

(by Private Notice) asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether the Government had any statement to make regarding the present situation in China, especially as regards the position of negotiations with Canton on the resumption of trade with this country?

Mr. LOCKER-LAMPSON

As regards the position in China generally, I have nothing to add to the statements which have appeared in the Press. As regards Canton, negotiations were, as I informed the right hon. Gentleman the Member for Newcastle Central on 29th July, adjourned to enable the two delegations to consult their Governments. They have not yet been resumed.

Mr. LOOKER

Will my hon. Friend see that adequate steps are taken to protect the British subjects in Hankow, in case hostilities reach there, and also in Canton, where a great deal of indiscriminate firing is taking place, with great danger to British subjects on the Shameen?

Mr. LOCKER-LAMPSON

We are watching very carefully what is going on in China.

Mr. LOOKER

May I ask my hon. Friend whether it is any good watching what takes place in China from here, when British subjects are in danger?