§ 11. Sir WALTER de FRECEasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether the British Government proposes 860 to recognise the National Government of China; and, if so, when the announcement may be expected?
Mr. LOCKER-LAMPSONHis Majesty's Government in Great Britain are at present engaged in the negotiation of a treaty with the Chinese National Government on tariff matters. We hope that these negotiations will soon be brought to a successful issue, and if so the conclusion of the treaty will automatically result in the recognition of the Chinese National Government.
§ Mr. SAKLATVALAHow does the hon. Gentleman propose to enter into negotiations with a Government that he does not first recognise?
§ Mr. SAKLATVALAThat, is no answer to my question. I asked if these negotiations and the enactment of any treaty will be at all valid when you are negotiating with private persons whom you do not recognise as a Government?
§ Mr. SAKLATVALAWhy do not you recognise them?
§ Mr. MACLEANWhen this treaty is completed, will it be published in full so that the House and the country will know to what they are being committed?
Mr. BECKETTIs it the view of the Government that recognition depends on getting a satisfactory treaty?