§ 25. Sir A. KNOXasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what is the present strength of British, American, and Japanese forces in Shanghai; and whether he has received any reports from His Majesty's Minister at Peking, or the Consul-General at Shanghai, with regard to representations made by British residents regarding the desirability of retaining the British force at its present strength?
§ The approximate figures are:
| British | … | … | 2,550 |
| United States | … | … | 1,750 |
| Japanese | … | … | 1,900 |
§ No reports of any such representations have been received by my right hon. Friend.
§ Sir A. KNOXWill the hon. Gentleman agree to consult His Majesty's Consul-General at Shanghai before any decision is reached regarding a reduction of the British forces?
§ Mr. EDENOh, yes, I can assure my hon. and gallant Friend that due regard will, of course, be had to the necessities of the local situation before any action is taken.
§ Sir A. KNOXBut will the Consul-General be consulted?
§ Mr. MAXTONCan the hon. Gentleman tell us how it comes about that a representative of the Foreign Office is present?