§ 1. Mr. WELLOCKasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs the purpose of the International Tariff Commission now sitting at Peking; at whose instance it was set up; and if he will give the names of the British delegates serving on it?
§ The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for FOREIGN AFFAIRS (Mr. G. Locker-Lampson)I presume the hon. Member refers to the Tariff Revision Commission which is, in accordance with Articles I and IV of the Washington Treaty relating to the Chinese Customs Tariff, engaged on the revision of the Customs schedule of duties on imports into China so that the rates of duty shall be equivalent to 5 per cent. effective, as provided in the several commercial treaties to which China is a party. This Commission was, in accordance with the Washington Treaty, convened at the instance of the Chinese authorities in Peking. It met at Shanghai in the autumn of last year, and the final stages of the work are being carried out in Peking. The Commercial Secretary at Shanghai was the British representative during the earlier stages; his place has now 2284 been taken by the Acting Commercial Secretary at Peking.
§ Mr. WELLOCKI suppose the Chinese authorities are also represented and taking part?
§ Mr. LOCKER-LAMPSONOh, yes.