HC Deb 04 May 1927 vol 205 c1599
19. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether any decision has yet been come to as to the next step to be taken with regard to the reply to our note to Mr. Chen on the outrages at Nanking; and, if so, if he will state what is the next step to be taken?

Sir A. CHAMBERLAIN

I am unable to make any statement at present, but hope to do so shortly.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

Can the right hon. Gentleman give the House an assurance that before any sanctions, for example, are commenced this House will have an opportunity of discussing the question?

Sir A. CHAMBERLAIN

Perhaps the hon. and gallant Gentleman will put the question again on Monday.

Mr. W. THORNE

Are any of the Powers outside making any effort to settle this unfortunate quarrel in China?

Sir A. CHAMBERLAIN

There is no Power that I know of, least of all His Majesty's Government, which would not fail to contribute to a settlement of the civil war in China.

Mr. THORNE

Is it to last for all time?

Sir A. CHAMBERLAIN

It will go on as long as the Chinese continue to fight one another.