§ 72. Mr. RHYS DAVIESasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what action has been taken regarding the seizure of the Dairen customs by Manchukuo; and whether steps will be taken for the preservation of any part of the customs which are security for debts?
§ Mr. EDENThe Dairen customs have not been seized by Manchukuo. After the dismissal of the Japanese Commissioner of Customs for refusing to remit the revenue to Shanghai, the Japanese staff resigned and handed over the Dairen customs to Manchukuo. Through the intermediary of the Japanese and British Legations, the Chinese authorities have been informed of the terms of an arrange- 248 ment providing for a Manchurian quota for the foreign obligations secured on the Chinese customs revenues and for the maintenance of the integrity of the Customs Administration, to which the Manchurian authorities might be persuaded to agree. It is still uncertain what attitude the Chinese Government will adopt. His Majesty's Government will continue to work for the security of the loans and the integrity of the Customs Service by such means as are open to them and are proper in the circumstances.