HC Deb 01 May 1939 vol 346 cc1489-90
15. Mr. Moreing

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?

Mr. Butler

As far as my Noble Friend is aware, the situation remains as stated in my reply of 6th April to my hon. and and gallant Friend the Member for Chertsey (Commander Marsden).

16. Mr. Moreing

asked the Prime Minister what has been the result of his inquiries into the complaint that Mrs. Charles Sherwin, a British subject, has been repeatedly refused permission by the Japanese authorities to rejoin her husband in Hankow?

Mr. Butler

My Noble Friend is informed that Mrs. Sherwin has hitherto been refused a pass by the Japanese authorities for reasons which are not clear and which are being further investigated.

Mr. Moreing

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the allegation was made that Mr. Sherwin was anti-Japanese in sentiment; and is he also aware that when the Chinese evacuated Hankow, Mr. Sherwin went into buildings which the Chinese had filled with bombs and mines in order to trap the Japanese and removed those bombs, and does not that show that the Japanese allegations are groundless?

Mr. Butler

I am aware of those facts, and these matters will be taken into consideration in making our further investigation.