HC Deb 26 February 1934 vol 286 cc740-1
15. Mr. MANDER

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he will state the present position with regard to the case of Mr. E. Lenox-Simpson, who was wrongfully expelled by the Manchukuo authorities from Harbin; and whether any agreement with regard to compensation has yet been reached?

Sir J. SIMON

A report upon various points connected with the case for which I had called has just been received from His Majesty's Chargé d'Affaires at Peking and is now under examination. There are complicated legal issues involved and it is not possible at present to come to any conclusion on the subject of the claim.

19. Mr. NUNN

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he is aware that negotiations are taking place between the Japanese Government and certain French commercial undertakings for the grant of concessions in Manchukuo; and whether he will take any steps, having regard to the decision not to recognise the state of Manchukuo, to secure that British subjects shall have an equal opportunity to obtain concessions?

Sir J. SIMON

I have received reports that negotiations for undertakings in Manchuria have been initiated by French interests though not so far as I am aware with the Japanese Government. As regards the second part of the question, the Manchurian authorities and the Japanese Government have given repeated assurances that the principle of the open door in Manchuria will be observed, and no special steps on the part of His Majesty's Government appear to be required in order to secure the same opportunities for British subjects as are open to other nationals.

Earl WINTERTON

Is my right hon. Friend satisfied that the great opportunities for trade in Manchukuo are not being lost sight of; is it the case that they cannot be used by British exporters, owing to the fact that we do not recognise the Manchukuo Government?

Sir J. SIMON

I do not think the present diplomatic position is any obstacle at all to British enterprise in that region. I am sure the Noble Lord will agree that it is most important that everything should be done in that way.