HC Deb 17 July 1940 vol 363 cc189-91
6. Mr. Wilfrid Roberts

asked the under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what is now the position with regard to the Japanese demands concerning the Burma-Yunnan road; and whether the negotiations on this matter have been made known to the Governments of the United States of America, the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics and China?

7. Mr. Mander

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he will consider the advisability of entering into negotiations with the Government of China for a mutual treaty of joint action against aggression; and whether he will give an assurance that Great Britain will loyally adhere to all its engagements to China, whether by existing treaty or arising out of resolutions of the Council of the League of Nations, with particular reference to the use of the Burma road for the legitimate transport of goods?

Mr. Butler

As the House will be aware, His Majesty's Government recently received certain requests from the Japanese Government concerning the passage of supplies to China. His Majesty's Government have been considering these requests and have made substantial progress towards an agreement for a specified period with the Japanese Government. News of the conclusion of the agreement is expected at any time. Meanwhile pending a full statement, I should be grateful if hon. Members would not press me for replies to the specific points which they raise.

Mr. Roberts

In view of the public statement of Mr. Cordell Hull yesterday, has the American Government expressed its disapproval or approval of the arrangement made?

Mr. Butler

I must leave the interpretation of American statements to others.

Mr. Mander

Does the right hon. Gentleman consider this act of appeasement to an aggressor—[HON. MEMBERS: "Shame"]—That is exactly what it is. It is shameful. Does the right hon. Gentleman consider that this act of appeasement is likely to be more successful than previous attempts which have been made, at Munich and elsewhere?

Mr. Speaker

The hon. Member must remember that the Minister said he hoped that further questions would not be put.

Mr. Mander

May I put this point? Is the right hon. Gentleman going to refuse access to United States goods which it may be desired to send by this road, in view of the protest that has been made?

Mr. Butler

I think it rather irresponsible to make statements of that sort. Pending the full statement which will be made, I am not in a position to give information.

Several Hon. Members rose

—

Mr. Speaker

The Minister has asked hon. Members to postpone questions.

Mr. Roberts

I beg to give notice that I will raise the matter on the Adjournment.

Sir William Davison

On a point of Order. Does this not show that the matter of questions should be referred to a responsible committee of the House, so that irresponsible questions which may do incalculable harm to the country should not be put?

Mr. Shinwell

Will the right hon. Gentleman make it perfectly clear, beyond a shadow of doubt, that, while we are anxious to avoid an open quarrel, we shall not truckle to Japan?

Mr. Butler

I think, pending a full statement, which will explain to the satisfaction of the House Government policy in the matter, I had much better make no other comment.