HC Deb 23 April 1951 vol 487 cc21-2
46. Mr. Fitzroy Maclean

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what status is accorded by the Chinese authorities to His Majesty's Chargé d'Affaires in Peking and His Majesty's Consul-General in Shanghai.

The Minister of State (Mr. Younger)

The Chinese Government accepted His Majesty's Chargé d' Affaires in that capacity to discuss preliminary and procedural matters on the establishment of diplomatic relations. Pending the establishment of such relations the Chinese Government have not accepted His Majesty's Consular Officers in China, including His Majesty's Consul-General at Shanghai, in their official capacity.

Mr. Maclean

Is His Majesty's Consul-General in Shanghai free to leave China as and when he likes?

Mr. Younger

I should like notice about the details, but we certainly claim that he has the right. We have had difficulties both with exit and entry permits from and to China recently.

Mr. Maclean

Does His Majesty's Chargé d' Affaires in Peking enjoy full diplomatic status?

Mr. Younger

No, Sir. I think not.

Sir Herbert Williams

Can the hon. Gentleman say how long it is since a foreign government has refused to recognise the Government of this country de jure?