HC Deb 23 January 1929 vol 224 cc150-1
2. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, whether the capital of China has now been set up in Nanking instead of in Peking; and, if so, whether it is proposed to station His Majesty's representative at Nanking?

Sir A. CHAMBERLAIN

Nanking is the official capital of the Nationalist Government of China; but the transfer of the administration to the new seat of government is not complete. Practical considerations make it impossible for His Majesty's Minister to reside in Nanking, but arrangements are being made for a member of the Legation staff to reside at Shanghai as the Minister's personal representative and to visit Nanking as and when required in order to maintain touch with the National Government.

Lieut-Commander KENWORTHY

Do we understand that His Majesty is not represented at the moment at Nanking, and will not be represented by anyone there in future?

Sir A. CHAMBERLAIN

No, Sir. There is no accommodation for His Majesty's Minister at Nanking. Practical difficulties make his residence there impossible.