HC Deb 21 June 1926 vol 197 c18
36. Mr. FOOT MITCHELL

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether, in view of the violation of international agreements, such as the raiding of the Salt Tax, the murders of British subjects, the serious position of British shareholders who have invested their savings in the railways in China, and the ineffectiveness of diplomatic remonstrances, the Government will consider the desirability of taking further action, international or otherwise, to enforce the observance by China of her obligations and undertakings?

Sir AUSTEN CHAMBERLAIN

For the general attitude of His Majesty's Government at the present juncture, I would refer the hon. Member to an answer I returned to the hon. Member for South-East Essex (Mr. Looker) on the 14th of June, I am still in close consultation with His Majesty's Minister, Peking, as to measures to meet the attack on the salt administration at Tientsin, and every effort is being made to investigate the circumstances of the two recent murders of British' subjects, in order that the responsibility for them may be fixed.

Mr. MITCHELL

Will the right hon. Gentleman suspend the tariff and other negotiations with the so-called Chinese authority until such time as existing Treaty rights are respected?

Sir A. CHAMBERLAIN

The tariff negotiations are being conducted by several Powers besides this country, and it is very desirable, if possible, that the Powers should act in harmony.