HC Deb 13 February 1939 vol 343 cc1335-6
1. Mr. Robert Gibson

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Burma what are the transport facilities between Burma and China; and whether steps are being taken to improve the present means of communication and to open up new ones?

The Under-Secretary of State for Burma (Lieut.-Colonel Muirhead)

I would refer the hon. Member to the reply given to the hon. and gallant Member for the Isle of Wight (Captain P. Macdonald) on 6th February for information in regard to the Burma sector of the new highway from Lashio, the terminus of the Burma railway, to Kunming. There is also a connection, a portion of which for the present is only practicable in dry weather, between Bhamo and this road, and, in addition, there is the traditional caravan route between Bhamo and Tengyueh. Reciprocal arrangements have recently been concluded with the Chinese Government for the establishment of an air route between Burma and Kunming and arrangements are under consideration for the inauguration of services.

Mr. Gibson

In view of the occupation of the island of Hainan by Japan recently, does not the right hon. Gentleman agree that the question of these communications between Burma and China has given India a position of superlative strategic importance and potential commercial importance; and have the Government any plans in view with regard to improving these communications?

Lieut.-Colonel Muirhead

In view of the very wide nature of the hon. and learned Gentleman's question, perhaps he would put in on the Paper.

Sir Stanley Reed

Has my hon. and gallant Friend any information that the prospect of further Chinese penetration of Burma along these roads is causing serious apprehension among the people of that country?

Lieut.-Colonel Muirhead

I have no information to that effect.