§ 17. Captain P. MACDONALDasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether his attention has been called to the official Japanese statement that the promise of Manchukuo to maintain an open door was conditional on recognition by the foreign Governments interested; and whether he will make a statement in this connection at an early date?
§ Sir J. SIMONI presume that my hon. and gallant Friend is referring to Press reports of the terms of the note addressed by the Japanese Government to His Majesty's Ambassador in Tokyo regarding oil policy in Manchuria. From a telegraphic report I have received it appears that it is contended in the note that the adherence of the existing regime in Manchuria to the principle of the "open door" was not unconditional. I have not, however, yet received the text of the note, and am unable to make any statement about it.
§ Captain MACDONALDIs it not a fact that the maintenance of the open door was part of the original understanding?
§ Sir J. SIMONI think I had better see the note before answering further questions.
§ Mr. THORNEJapan being outside the League, how is the League to exercise any control over Japan at the present time?