HC Deb 19 April 1950 vol 474 cc116-7
12. Mr. Fernyhough

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs how many British merchant ships have been seized by the Chinese Nationalists while running the blockade; and what representations have been made in connection therewith.

Mr. Ernest Davies

Two British ships, the "Ethel Moller" and the" Tai Chung Shan," have been taken by the Nationalist authorities while attempting to enter Amoy; both ships remain under detention. His Majesty's Consul at Formosa has indicated to the provincial authorities the serious view taken by His Majesty's Government of these developments, but up to the present no satisfactory explanation has been received nor information given. The matter will continue to b2 pressed.

Mr. Fernyhough

Can my hon. Friend say whether the crews are safe and are being well cared for; and will he take steps to repatriate the crews, even though the ships have to be left behind?

Mr. Davies

Yes, Sir. Our Consul in Formosa, together with representatives of the Ministry of Transport, is at present making inquiries precisely on the lines of the question which has been asked.

Mr. Walter Fletcher

Is the Minister considering the appointment of a Consul in Swatow and Amoy because we have one in Formosa? Negotiating over the water is really not much use, and those two ports are of great importance in sending the unwanted people from Malaya.

Mr. Paton

Since there is nobody in Formosa who can satisfy international law and usage—as has been recently demonstrated by the British Government —are these plain acts of piracy being treated as such?