§ 15. Mr. KIRKPATRICKasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what information he has as to the conditions in Harbin; and what steps are being taken to safeguard the lives and property of British residents in the disturbed conditions prevailing there?
§ Mr. EDENThe information which has been received shows that a state of great insecurity exists in Harbin owing to the activities of bandits. It is unsafe for foreign residents to go outside the city and attempts at kidnapping have been made even in Harbin itself. When approached on the subject, His Majesty's Consul-General has advised the evacuation of women and children, and several have left. His Majesty's Consul-General is also assisting British firms to obtain armed guards for the protection of life and property. The Consular body at Harbin have represented to the local authorities the urgent necessity for the strengthening and improving of the police force, and His Majesty's Ambassador at Tokyo has asked the Japanese Government to use their influence with the Manchurian authorities for the same purpose. This they have promised to do.