§ 16. Mr. DAYasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs the number of British missionaries that have been killed or kidnapped in China during the 12 months ended to the last convenient date; can be make a general statement governing the present position of British missionaries in China; and are any special instructions issued to His Majesty's Consuls for the purpose of dealing with the various applications of missionaries to travel in these disturbed areas?
Mr. A. HENDERSONSeven British missionaries have been kidnapped, without being murdered, in the last 12 months, and three have been murdered. Many British missionaries are stationed in the interior of China. I understand 1754 that, as a general rule, they endeavour to remain at their posts as long as is possible. His Majesty's Consular officers decide, if necessary in consultation with His Majesty's Minister, whether it is desirable to advise British subjects to withdraw from any particular locality at any given time, and use their discretion as to facilitating journeys by British subjects.
§ Mr. DAYCan my right hon. Friend say whether His Majesty's Consuls grant the same facilities to women missionaries for the purpose of entering those areas as are granted to men missionaries?
Mr. HENDERSONI cannot imagine that there is any difference. If the hon. Member will put down a question, I will give him the information.
§ Mr. C. WILLIAMSHow many out of the seven missionaries mentioned are actually in captivity now?