§ 10. Sir K. WOODasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he has any further information to give the House concerning the position in China; whether he can make any statement concerning the safety of the Reverend and Mrs. N. W. Porteous, British missionaries recently captured by Chinese bandits; and whether he has any information of the capture of Mr. C. A. Bridgman at Changshow?
§ Mr. DALTONWith regard to the position in China, my right hon. Friend has little to add to the reply which was given on Monday last to the hon. and gallant Member for the Isle of Wight (Captain Macdonald). At the request of the Chinese authorities, who appear to anticipate a recrudescence of hostilities in the South, British subjects at Nanning on the West River have been advised to withdraw if they are able to do so. The head of the Provisional Government informed His Majesty's Consul-General at Hankow on 28th April that Mr. and Mrs. Porteous were quite safe and that it was hoped to effect their release within the next few days. Mr. Bridgman, who was captured by brigands at Changshow on 9th April, was recently reported to have escaped.
§ Sir K. WOODCan the hon. Gentleman assure the House that as far as British subjects are concerned, all steps are being taken to have regard to their safety at the present time?
§ Mr. DALTONYes, Sir. Everything possible is being done.