HC Deb 30 May 1938 vol 336 cc1632-4
4. Mr. Moreing

asked the Prime Minister whether he is aware that the Japanese military authorities are still refusing to allow the free circulation of the tramcars of the British-owned Shanghai Electric Construction Company in the Hongkew and Yangtzepoo districts of the International Settlement, thereby preventing the resumption of work in British and other factories in the district; and what further steps he is taking to protect British interests in this matter?

Mr. Butler

Yes, Sir. In spite of continual representations by His Majesty's authorities at Shanghai, the position remains substantially as described by the hon. Member. It cannot, however, be said to prevent the resumption of work, since the workmen can travel by other means. His Majesty's Government are bearing the matter in mind as part of the general question of the opening up of the occupied areas at Shanghai.

Mr. George Griffiths

Could not this be dealt with through the Non-Intervention Committee?

Mr. Moreing

While accepting what the hon. Gentleman said, that the workers could travel to their work by other means, may I ask whether he is aware that the suspension of the tramway service is causing great inconvenience to the Chinese population, and that a British manufacturer who works in the Yangtzepoo area has said that he could give immediate employment to 1,200 Chinese hands if the facilities were restored; and will the hon. Gentleman press this matter urgently upon the Japanese Government and the Japanese military authorities?

Mr. Butler

I am aware of the great inconvenience, and that is why we are indeed pressing this matter.

16. Sir Patrick Hannon

asked the Prime Minister whether he proposes to request the Japanese Government to restore to the Shanghai Municipal Council their rightful control of all parts of the International Settlement, including Hongkew and Yangtzepoo, at present occupied by Japanese troops?

Mr. Butler

since the actual fighting receded from Shanghai in November last, His Majesty's Government have lost no opportunity of representing to the Japanese authorities the desirability of the Shanghai Municipal Council being permitted to resume their normal control over the Settlement area.

Sir P. Hannon

Has my hon. Friend received any reply from the Japanese Government?

Mr. Butler

Not yet.

Mr. Moreing

Is my hon. Friend aware that extensive areas continue to be occupied by Japanese troops, and that the Japanese have no more right to be there than any other nationals? British interests are being grievously injured.

8. Mr. Muff (for Mr. David Adams)

asked the Prime Minister whether he has any information to show the extent to which the customs revenue of China seized by Japan is being employed in warfare against China?

Mr. Butler

I presume that the hon. Member is referring to the Customs revenues at Tientsin which are now de- posited in the Yokohama Specie Bank, It is impossible to say to what precise use these sums are being put.

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