§ 26. Mr. Vernon Bartlettasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs the estimated value of British investments in Shanghai; and whether he has consulted or will consult the U.S. Government with a view to taking an immediate decision to send an Anglo-American force to that city should the situation in China continue to deteriorate.
§ Mr. MayhewThe value in 1941 of British investments in Shanghai has been estimated at £107 million; and their present replacement value is probably still not less than that figure. Intergovernmental consultations of the kind suggested have not taken place, nor are they contemplated by His Majesty's Government.
§ Mr. BartlettBut will my hon. Friend bear in mind, not only the fact that to a considerable extent the rations of our people depend upon the defence of these interests in Shanghai, but also the fact that if the authority of the Nanking Government were to break down, a very large number of Chinese would also be grateful for any protection we could give them?
§ Mr. MayhewYes, we are aware of that, of course.
§ Squadron-Leader FlemingIn view of the fact that quite recently it has been reported that the authorities in Shanghai advised British officials to evacuate, are no steps being taken to protect those people by our own Navy?
§ Mr. MayhewWe are making plans, and we are in touch with the United States' Ambassador.
§ Mr. HarrisonWould the Minister consider sending, instead of a military force as suggested in the Question, a quantity of rice to feed the citizens of Shanghai, which might do more good than a military force?
§ Sir Ronald RossIn view of the advantage that might accrue to the Chinese as well as to British interests in Shanghai, is the only policy the Government are contemplating at present the evacuation of Britsh personnel rather than protecting Shanghai?
§ Mr. MayhewNo, Sir. I should make clear that when I said plans were being made, I meant for the protection and not the evacuation of British and United States nationals in China.