§ 6. Mr. HANNONasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he is aware that the Central Bank at Canton has been closed as the result of a boycott by native banks fomented by the local chamber of commerce; and, seeing that British interests are much affected by this incident, if he will state what steps are being taken to enable the bank to carry on its normal functions?
§ Mr. DALTONMy right hon. Friend is aware that the branch of the Central Bank at Canton has been closed. This bank is an institution of the National Government of China with whom the Canton authorities have certain political differences at the present moment. There are no steps which my right hon. Friend could properly take to secure the reopening of the bank.
§ Mr. HANNONWould the hon. Gentleman make some further inquiry from the British community in Canton, and find out whether any steps can be taken by His Majesty's Government?
§ Mr. DALTONYes, I will gladly do that. May I add that we are advised that British interests in this bank are not large and that it is predominantly a Chinese bank.