HC Deb 03 July 1940 vol 362 cc814-5
3. Mr. Price

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what negotiations have taken place between His Majesty's Government and the Japanese Government relative to a stoppage of supplies to China via the Burmese overland route; and what representations have been made to His Majesty's Government on this subject?

4. Mr. Wilfrid Roberts

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he can make a statement with regard to the recent Japanese request to the British Government?

Mr. Butler

The Japanese Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs communicated to His Majesty's Ambassador at Tokyo on 24th June a request from the Japanese Government to put a stop to the transportation of arms, ammunition and certain other supplies to the National Government of China via the Burma route and Hong Kong. The reply to this request is at present under consideration.

Mr. Price

Will, the Under-Secretary bear in mind the very bad impression which would be created in the United States if we in any way gave way to the request?

Mr. Butler

That consideration is in mind.

5. Mr. R. Morgan

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what is the present position with regard to the use of the Yangtse by British and other foreign shipping below and above Nanking?

Mr. Butler

As I informed my hon. Friend on 29th February, the Yangtse is still closed to third Power shipping above Kiangyin, while below this point British vessels continue to operate under certain difficulties.