26. Mr. COOKERasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether, now that the Nanking Government has been recognised by Great Britain, any steps are being taken to give effect to the proposals relating to the China Indemnity Fund?
§ The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for FOREIGN AFFAIRS (Mr. Godfrey Locker-Lampson)It is, of course, impossible to find time during the present Session to pass an amending Act, as was originally contemplated. My right hon. Friend has therefore been in communication with His Majesty's Minister at Peking in an endeavour to find means to expedite action so as to release some portion of the funds at an early date for purposes of mutual benefit to Great Britain and China, such as have been recommended by the Buxton Advisory Committee.
§ Mr. LOOKERBefore any definite decision is arrived at, as to the steps to be taken in relation to the Boxer Indemnity Fund, will the right hon. Gentleman issue a White Paper showing the proposals contemplated by the Government 1489 so that the House may have an opportunity of considering them before the Government are committed to them?
§ Mr. LOCKER-LAMPSONI should like to consider that matter in consultation with my right hon. Friend.
Captain CROOKSHANKIf the right hon. Gentleman is issuing such a White Paper, will he, at the same time, state the total expenditure in which this country has been involved in China since the passage of this Act?