HC Deb 02 July 1952 vol 503 cc415-6
20. Mr. Philips Price

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what steps are being taken to make it clear to the Government of the United States of America that public opinion in this country will not tolerate the support of any military action which may result from the activities of the Chinese National forces in Formosa.

Mr. Selwyn Lloyd

In his declaration of 27th June, 1950, President Truman ordered the United States Seventh Fleet to prevent any attack on Formosa. At the same time he called on the Chinese Nationlist authorities to cease all air and sea operations against the mainland of China. So far as Her Majesty's Government are aware, this "neutralisation" of Formosa remains the policy of the United States Government and it would therefore be unnecessary to take any steps such as those envisaged in this Question.

Mr. Price

In view of the serious situation that might arise through an action by the Nationalist forces in Korea, would the Minister of State continue to keep the United States Government—his opposite number—informed as to the state of public opinion in this country in regard to this matter?

Mr. Lloyd

I can only remind the hon. Gentleman of the statement made by the Prime Minister in the House on 26th February, when he said that few adventures could be less successful or fruitful than for Generalissimo Chiang Kai-shek to plunge on to the mainland.

Mr. Fenner Brockway

Has the right hon. and learned Gentleman's attention been drawn to the statement made by Mr. Chiang Kai-shek yesterday, favouring the bombing of industries in China, and saying that he hoped the time would come when he would lead Formosans on to the mainland against China? Would the right hon. and learned Gentleman dissociate himself from being allied with these plans?

Mr. Lloyd

I adhere to the form of words use by the Prime Minister which, I think meet the point of the hon. Gentleman.