HC Deb 09 November 1949 vol 469 cc1201-2
17. Mr. Carson

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies when it will be possible to give an estimate of British assets in Hong Kong.

Mr. Creech Jones

As I stated on 2nd November in reply to my hon. Friend, the Member for Aston (Mr. Wyatt), the compilation of such figures on any reliable basis is a matter of considerable complexity and accurate results are very difficult to obtain: for these reasons I regret that I am unable to give any indication of when it may be possible for such an estimate to be given.

Mr. Carson

While I realise that the value of Hong Kong cannot be fully assessed in pounds, shillings and pence, would the right hon. Gentleman consider in the future giving some estimate of what these assets are worth?

Mr. Creech Jones

It is difficult to prepare any reliable estimate. We may speculate about it, but I would not like to give a figure to the House which had no sound basis.

Mr. Driberg

Would my right hon. Friend agree that the most valuable British asset in Hong Kong would be the goodwill of the working people whose welfare was so disgracefully neglected by the friends of the hon. Member opposite?

Sir T. Moore

Another wicked case of Tory misrule!

Mr. Walter Fletcher

Does the right hon. Gentleman think that that asset is useful in repairing ships, which is very necessary in Hong Kong?

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