§ 25. Mr. John Patonasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if the negotiations for a commercial treaty taking place between the British and Chinese Governments have now been concluded; and if he is in a position to make a statement on the subject.
§ Mr. MayhewNo, Sir. A draft treaty was presented to the Chinese Government in June last year. The Chinese counter draft was received in this country very recently, and is now under consideration.
§ Air-Commodore HarveyWill the Under-Secretary ensure that before this treaty is concluded a clause will be inserted stating that property should be returned to its British owners beforehand?
§ Mr. MayhewI have no doubt that this is being borne in mind by the negotiators.
§ Mr. PatonIs the hon. Gentleman able to give any indication at all when this treaty is likely to be concluded?
§ Mr. MayhewI am afraid not. There has been some delay, largely, I think, in the initial stages because of the removal of the capital to Nanking.