§ 1. Captain FAIRFAXasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he can make a statement as to the present situation in China in general and of British residents in particular, as regards their personal safety, security of property, and commercial interests?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for FOREIGN AFFAIRS (Sir Austen Chamberlain)The advance of the Southern forces into Central China does not appear to have adversely affected the personal security of British residents, nor does it appear to have involved any serious danger to British property, although there has inevitably been some risk to and disturbance of British establishments lying directly in the army zone. The anti-British agitation in Szechuan has led to the destruction of some British property at Chungking, and it has been considered advisable for women and children to leave that port. The position of British commercial interests in South China was dealt with in the reply given on the 10th instant to the right hon. Gentleman the Member for Newcastle North. As regards mid-China, conditions are still uncertain, and it would be premature to pass judgment.
§ Captain FAIRFAXMay I ask whether the right hon. Gentleman can make any statement about the seizure of the British ship "Sunning" at Swatow by pirates?
§ Sir A. CHAMBERLAINI really think I ought to have notice of a question of 1828 that kind. It does not arise out of the question on the Paper.
§ Mr. SOMERVILLECan the right hon. Gentleman assure the House that, in case of need, there is a sufficient naval force at Hankow to ensure the safety of British residents?
§ Sir A. CHAMBERLAINI would much prefer that questions as to conditions of such delicacy and difficulty were put on the Paper; if hon. Members will kindly do so.