§ 29. Sir A. KNOXasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is aware that the Hong Kong authorities recently refused to agree to an American proposal to make Hong Kong the terminal point in China for a regular trans-Pacific air service; that the proposition was accepted by the Portuguese authorities at Macau; and whether he' has any statement to make on the subject?
Mr. J. H. THOMASI am not aware of any recent application having been made on behalf of American interests for permission to operate a regular trans-Pacific air service to Hong Kong, but if such a request were to be made His Majesty's Government would be prepared to give it favourable consideration.
§ Sir A. KNOXWill the right hon. Gentleman inquire at Hong Kong? I have definite information that this request was made and was refused, as commercial interests in Hong Kong were very much annoyed at the decision.
Mr. THOMASBefore giving this answer, I ascertained the facts from Hong Kong, and I was assured that no application had been made. I have already answered that if an application was made, it would be favourably considered.