HC Deb 06 April 1927 vol 204 cc2044-5
14. Mr. H. WILLIAMS

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what rights, if any, are possessed by a British subject seeking to trade in those parts of China which are outside the Treaty port areas?

Mr. LOCKER-LAMPSON

British subjects duly provided with passports may travel for purposes of trade to all parts of the interior of China, may buy native produce at places in the interior and convey it thence to a Treaty port, and may convey foreign imports from the Treaty port to places in the interior. They may employ Chinese agents to convey such goods on their behalf retaining the ownership of the goods, the taxation of which in transit is regulated by Treaty; but as British subjects may acquire land and buildings only in the Treaty port areas they may not establish any shop or business outside those areas. Vessels under the British flag have the right under certain conditions to navigate the inland waters of China.

Mr. WILLIAMS

Do I understand from the answer that Chinamen in this country have greater trading rights than Britons enjoy in China?

Mr. LOCKER-LAMPSON

That is so.

Mr. BECKETT

Is it a fact that the Chinese have not yet sent troops to Britain, and therefore can the hon. Gentleman expect—

Mr. SPEAKER

Order, order!