HC Deb 18 March 1936 vol 310 c436
17. Mr. DAVIDSON

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether any steps are being taken for the purpose of obtaining full particulars of British investments in Hong Kong?

Mr. J. H. THOMAS

It is impossible to ascertain the exact amount of British capital invested.

Mr. DAVIDSON

Will the right hon. Gentleman look at the question again? I ask whether any steps are being taken to ascertain these facts. Are any such steps being taken?

Mr. THOMAS

The hon. Member knows that, in order to assist him, I wrote to him privately and asked him to tell me exactly what he meant. I have received a reply but I do not quite understand it now.

Mr. DAVIDSON

In view of that reply, may I say that in my opinion—

HON. MEMBERS

Order!

18. Mr. DAVIDSON

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies the total Government expenditure since 1931 in the protection of British interests in Hong Kong?

Mr. THOMAS

I understand that the lion. Member's question relates to expenditure on Imperial Defence. This expenditure is not under the control of the Colonial Office, but I am seeing whether the figures can be obtained.