§ 3. Mr. LOOKERasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he is aware of the gravity of the situation in China, and of the probability of the collapse of trade and industry, both Chinese and British, 2008 unless outside help is afforded; and if he will consult the other Powers interested with a view to joint steps being taken to prevent such a result?
§ Sir A. CHAMBERLAINI am aware of the grave situation in China. There are, however, some elements in the position as, for instance, last year's record returns of trade published by the Chinese Maritime Customs, which show that the position of trade and industry in China is not quite so disastrous as indicated in the question. The co-operation of the interested Powers who are taking part in the Tariff Conference at Peking will, it is hoped, effect a further improvement.
§ Mr. LOOKERIs the Foreign Secretary aware that the record Customs returns by no means reflect the conditions in the interior of the country?
§ Sir A. CHAMBERLAINI do not know what they reflect.