HC Deb 09 December 1929 vol 233 cc15-6
27. Captain MACDONALD

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he has any information to give the House in regard to the present position in China in so far as it affects the property of British nationals?

Mr. A. HENDERSON

Following on a mutiny of troops at Pukow, opposite Nanking, President Chiang Kai-shek disarmed the guards left in Nanking by certain generals of whose loyalty he was doubtful, and arrested their civilian staffs, and martial law was proclaimed. Measures were at once taken for the despatch of British naval reinforcements and preparations made for the evacuation in case of need of women and children. A critical situation has since developed owing to the revolt of troops stationed on the Shanghai-Nanking Railway, about mid-way between the two cities.

In view of these developments, His Majesty's Consul-General at Nanking has been instructed that, in the event of danger, he should at once order the withdrawal of women and children. There are at present two British warships at Nanking and His Majesty's Ship "Suffolk" is due there to-day and another cruiser, His Majesty's Ship "Berwick," is due there to-morrow.

I have no information as to the declaration of martial law at Shanghai. At present, three British warships are there, and a flotilla leader and two destroyers are on their way there from Hong Kong. All refitting in the Hong Kong dockyard is being expedited and overtime is being worked. Arrangements are in hand for the transfer of one battalion from Hong Kong to Shanghai should the situation demand it.

I have no information that British property has been interfered with nor endangered elsewhere, except perhaps at Ichang. A small body of rebels approached that place and preparations were made to evacuate foreigners in case of need. The latest reports show that the defence of Ichang has received reinforcements, and after continuous fighting the rebels have been repulsed. No immediate trouble is foreseen there, but as a precaution, women and children either remained afloat or concentrated on the river front last night.

Captain MACDONALD

Has any information been received to the effect that this situation is largely due to Soviet propaganda?

Sir LAMING WORTHINGTONEVANS

Will the right hon. Gentleman say whether he has had any communicacation with Mr. Eugene Chen?

Mr. ALBERY

Is it a fact that His Majesty's Government are taking the necessary steps to protect British interests in China similar to those which were taken by the late Government?