HC Deb 15 May 1950 vol 475 cc864-5
71. Mr. Donner

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what reply he proposes to make to the protest of the Peking Government against the restrictions on Chinese nationals entering and leaving Hong Kong; and whether he will give an assurance that, in view of water and accommodation problems as well as the danger of Communist infiltration into the Colony, these restrictions will be continued.

Mr. Ernest Davies

The reply is at present under consideration. Control measures have been introduced because of the large influx into Hong Kong over the last few months which has led to serious overcrowding with its attendant health, fire and water shortage risks. I can assure the hon. Member that His Majesty's Government have no intention of fettering the hands of the Government of Hong Kong on matters such as these which are of vital importance to the well being of the inhabitants of the Colony.

Mr. Donner

While thanking the Minister for that reply, may I ask for an assurance that these restrictions will not be watered down in an effort to reach some sort of bargain with the Chinese Communist Government?

Mr. Davies

I will take notice of that.