HC Deb 29 July 1931 vol 255 c2253
5. Mr. DAY

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he can give the names of the British subjects who have died in captivity during the previous throe years while under the jurisdiction of the national Government of China; and can he state what instructions are given to the British authorities in China as to warning British subjects of the dangers in visiting the remote districts of China?

Mr. DALTON

Apart from Mr. Thor-burn, whose fate is still unknown, six British subjects have died in captivity in China during the past three years, namely, Mr. D. F. Pike, Father Leonard, Mr. Scarlett, Miss Nettleton, Miss Harrison, and Father Tierney. The British authorities in China have standing instructions to give advice and warning to British subjects who reside in, or wish to proceed to, districts where there is known or believed to be danger.

Mr. DAY

Did any of the persons mentioned receive these warnings before they proceeded inland?

Mr. DALTON

Warnings would almost certainly have been given to them.

Mr. McSHANE

Has any compensation been given to the relatives?

Mr. DALTON

I think not, but, if my hon. Friend will put a question on the Paper, I will make inquiry.