§ 21. Mr. MOREINGasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he is aware that the contract for the construction of the Chinese railway from Yushang to Pingsiang has been given to a German firm, and all permanent-way material and rolling stock are to be supplied from Germany, and that the sum of £500,000 is due to the British and Chinese Corporation for surveys already undertaken on the line; and whether any payment has been made to that British firm or any reason advanced for withholding from them the contract for the construction of the railway?
§ Sir J. SIMONI have seen Press reports to the effect that such a contract has been awarded to a German firm, and I am also aware that the sum of approximately £500,000 is due to the British and Chinese Corporation. His Majesty's Minister in China has been in touch with the local representatives of the Corporation and has taken up the matter with the Chinese Government, who have, however, so far made no reply to the representations addressed to them.
Sir NAIRNE STEWART SANDEMANIs it the case that in the spring of this year the Chinese Government appointed a German professor as railway adviser?
§ Sir J. SIMONDoes my hon. Friend mean in connection with this matter?
§ Sir J. SIMONI think that question would have to be put down. I do not know the answer off-hand.