§ 9. Mr. COVEasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what is the present position regarding the Japanese invasion of China?
§ Mr. EDENThe Japanese and Manchurian forces have, I understand, already for the most part retired beyond the Great Wall in accordance with the terms of the armistice recently arranged. I am further informed that arrangements were recently made whereby part of Li Chi-chun's forces are to be included in the Chinese police force which is due to take over the neutral zone in accordance with these terms and that the remainder are to be disbanded. As regards the railway, it is reported that a certain number of passenger trains are now running between Tientsin and Tongshan and between Tongshan. and Shanhiakuan pending the completion of negotiations for the resumption of through traffic.
§ Mr. COCKSAre not the forces of General Li Chi-chun allies or auxiliaries of the Japanese, and not Chinese forces at all?
§ Mr. NEIL MACLEANWill the Foreign Office see to it that the same circumstances do not eventuate in that quarter as arose in the Principality of Korea?
§ Mr. EDENThe hon. Member will see from the answer that the position is improving to the extent that the terms of the armistice are being carried out.