§ 14. Mr. MOREINGasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether any official report has reached him as to the announcement by the Foreign Minister 1174 of the de facto State of Manchukuo relating to the extra territorial rights of foreigners; what is the precise nature of the changes contemplated; and to what extent the rights of British subjects are affected?
§ Viscount CRANBORNEYes, Sir. I understand that the authorities in Manchuria issued a statement in general terms on 1st July to the effect that it was their intention gradually to abolish the extra-territorial rights at present enjoyed by the subjects of Powers which have not recognised that regime. As my hon. Friend will no doubt be aware, a treaty providing for the gradual abolition of Japanese extra territorial rights in Manchuria was concluded between the Japanese Government and the Manchurian authorities on 10th June. This was mainly concerned with the gradual application of Manchurian taxes to Japanese subjects. The intentions of the Manchurian authorities in regard to the extra territorial rights of other foreign Powers are no doubt similar, though no details are yet available.
§ Mr. MOREINGIs my Noble Friend aware that since the adoption of this policy by the Manchukuo Government there has been the very serious incident of the arrest of a British subject of Indian nationality in Manchukuo, and will the Government take all necessary steps to protect the interests of British nationals in that State?
§ Viscount CRANBORNEI have already explained that His Majesty's Government have yet no detailed information. We are closely watching the position, but until those details are known, it is impossible to know what action it would be proper to take.
§ Mr. HANNAHIs it true that Japan is the only country not inconvenienced by our non-recognition of Manchukuo?