§ 26. Mr. William Teelingasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he has now received a report concerning the findings of the Chinese Government's Commission of Inquiry concerning the burning of British property in Canton; and what further steps he proposes to take.
§ 15. Mr. Gammansasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what action he proposes to take regarding the payment of compensation by the Chinese Government for the destruction of British property in the Shameen Canton on 16th January.
§ Mr. MayhewThe report of the Chinese Government's investigators has not been communicated to His Majesty's Embassy, nor has any formal reply yet been received. Discussions are still proceeding. His Majesty's Ambassador has informed the Chinese Government that British claims are expected to approximate to£300,000. In doing so he suggested that the Chinese Government might care to settle at this figure and close the case.
Mr. TeeingDoes not the hon. Gentleman think it is high time that a decision was reached? Can he bring pressure to bear and get an answer soon?
§ Mr. MayhewWe agree that this has been hanging fire, and we hope that the Chinese Government will accept our offer. If they do not, we shall certainly see what further steps we can take.
§ Air-Commodore HarveyIs there any likelihood of a new consulate being built at Shameen, to replace the one which was burned down?