HC Deb 22 June 1938 vol 337 cc1049-50
1. Mr. Mander

asked the Prime Minister to what extent requests made by China at the League of Nations Council meeting in May last for an extension of the League Health Services in China to prevent epidemics, for loans and for action to assist China under Articles 11 and 17 of the Covenant, are being carried out?

The Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Butler)

The general position as regards assistance to China is as stated in the reply given to my hon. and gallant Friend the Member for the Isle of Wight (Captain P. Macdonald) on 14th June. As regards the last part of the question, the Chinese representative at the League of Nations Council meeting in May last made no demand for action by the League under Articles II and 17 of the Covenant. The Council, however, remains seized of the original appeal of the Chinese Government under Articles 11 and 17 of the Covenant.

Mr. Mander

Is there any question of making arrangements with. China for the consideration of these matters?

Mr. Butler

I am not in a position to make any detailed statement on this subject at present.

7. Mr. Hannah

asked the Prime Minister whether he is now satisfied that the Japanese assurance that normal conditions would be restored in the collection of Chinese Customs at Shanghai, involving the payment of duty by Japanese importers, at the earliest possible date has been fulfilled?

Mr. Butler

My information is that Customs examiners are now being permitted to function on Japanese controlled wharves as well as other wharves, and that Japanese as well as other nationals are required to pay the Customs duties according to the amended tariff in force at ports under Japanese military occupation.