HC Deb 02 November 1938 vol 340 cc187-8
12. Mr. Moreing

asked the Prime Minister whether it is proposed to resume the Anglo-Japanese conversations at an early date; and whether he can give any indication of the subjects which will be discussed?

Mr. Butler

The matters of complaint which have formed the subject of representations to successive Foreign Ministers in Japan throughout the year have not yet been taken up with the new Minister, Mr. Arita, but the new Vice-Minister, on taking office a few days ago, was invited by His Majesty's Ambassador to give his urgent personal attention to all the subjects in regard to which His Majesty's Government are seeking redress. While these discussions are in progress between the two Governments, it is not possible for me to give any precise indication of the subjects under review, beyond saying that an attempt will be made to cover all outstanding matters of importance in respect of which the Japanese Government can fairly be expected to give immediate satisfaction to the British interests concerned.

Mr. Moreing

Will my hon. Friend pay special attention to the plans that are being put forward by the Japanese for controlling a very large part of China and to the great consequences such control will have on British trade, and will he regard it as a specially important point to be brought to the notice of the Japanese Government?

Mr. Butler

Yes, certainly.

Mr. Wedgwood Benn

Is it true, as stated in the "Times," that the Japanese Foreign Office have indicated their desire to transfer the venue of these conversations to London?

Mr. Butler

I have seen a report to that effect, but I should like to take this opportunity of saying that His Majesty's Government have every confidence in the British Ambassador to Japan.

Mr. Bellenger

Will His Majesty's Government lay emphasis in these conversations on what is known as the "open door" policy in China?

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