§ 2. Mr. De Chairasked the Prime Minister how long the steamship "Sagres" was detained by the Japanese and when she was released; whether he is aware that some of the crew were three days in Japanese prisons, and were subjected to severe maltreatment; and whether compensation is being demanded?
§ The Prime Minister (Mr. Chamberlain)The steamship "Sagres" was seized on 8th April. No report of her release has been received. Some of the Chinese members of the crew were subjected to maltreatment in an unsuccessful effort to extort favourable evidence, but my Noble Friend's reports do not indicate that any of them were actually imprisoned. His Majesty's Government reserve all their rights in respect of compensation.
§ Mr. De ChairWould it not be a salutary reminder to the Japanese if we stopped some of their merchant ships passing through the Atlantic and the Mediter- 2266 ranean, where we have overwhelming naval superiority.
§ The Prime MinisterI agree that the situation is completely unsatisfactory.