HC Deb 06 April 1939 vol 345 cc2987-8
71. Commander Marsden

asked the Prime Minister whether he is aware that the Shanghai-Nanking Railway, at present controlled by the Japanese, is now in complete working order and carrying a full load of passengers daily; and what steps he has taken to secure the payment of interest to British bondholders?

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

The Japanese authorities have refused to allow the inspection of the line by British representatives. It is understood, however, that it is in full working order so far as the track is concerned, but that there is only limited accommodation for passengers on the trains. Repeated representations have been made to the Japanese Government in regard to the British interest in this line, and these representations were renewed by His Majesty's Ambassador at Tokyo on 24th March.