HC Deb 23 May 1944 vol 400 cc577-8
59. Mr. A. Edwards

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he can give figures showing the contributions made by public subscriptions towards aiding China's war effort and, in particular, the sums spent through charitable organisations on medical supplies of every description.

Mr. Eden

Public subscriptions in this country have not been devoted directly to aiding China's war effort, but to relieving the distress there arising out of the war. The principal relief organisations operating in China to-day are the United Aid to China Fund, and the War Organisation of the British Red Cross and Order of St. John. Subscriptions to the United Aid to China Fund at present total £1,122,000, of which £930,000 has been remitted to China for distribution by Madame Chiang Kai-shek. This includes medical supplies to the value of over £6,500. As regard the War Organisation, their total expenditure to date, including commitments, amounts to £524,100, including an allocation of £100,000 for the purchase of medical supplies and drugs. Under this head, some £25,000 have already been supplied, and the balance is in the course of supply and transport. Over £200,000 was raised by the former British Fund for the Relief of Distress in China, and distributed there on relief work and the purchase of medical and hospital supplies.

Mr. Edwards

Can my right hon. Friend give an assurance that supplies to China of these essential commodities will not be in any way dependent on the raising of funds by charitable organisations?

Mr. Eden

I was asked for particulars of what the charitable organisations do. These are the particulars. They are, of course, over and above what the Government do.

Mr. Edwards

Can the right hon. Gentleman give an assurance that, in the absence of funds, these things will still go to China?

Mr. Eden

I would like to see that question on the Paper. I am confident that I can answer "Yes," but I would like notice.

Mr. J. J. Lawson

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is very grave concern about this matter and a feeling that we are not doing what we might do to help the Chinese in regard to hospital and first-aid supplies?

Mr. Eden

I am sorry if there is that feeling, because very great efforts have been made to meet what is admittedly a difficult situation.