HC Deb 07 March 1927 vol 203 cc820-1
75. Captain GARRO-JONES

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether the British commander of the Shanghai defence force has any military authority over the foreign military detachments; and whether he or any military officer or officers are empowered to treat with the Cantonese forces?

Mr. LOCKER-LAMPSON

The British military commander at Shanghai has been instructed to co-operate with the commanders of the troops of foreign Powers landed for the defence of the international settlement. The answer to the second part of the question is in the negative.

Captain GARRO-JONES

Do the Government intend to empower the local commander to treat with the Cantonese forces if they establish contact?

Mr. LOCKER-LAMPSON

That is the subject of a further question.