HC Deb 25 February 1953 vol 511 cc2054-5
3. Mr. A. Henderson

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Defence to what extent British naval and air units are patrolling the Straits of Formosa in order to provide protection to British merchant ships on their lawful occasions.

Mr. Birch

It is not in the public interest to reveal operational information about the extent to which patrols are carried out.

Mr. Henderson

Is the Parliamentary Secretary satisfied that everything possible is being done to protect British ships that are plying along the coast of Communist China? Only last week another British ship, the "Incharran" was fired upon. Has the attention of the Minister been drawn to the statement made by the Chinese Nationalist Prime Minister, a few days ago, at a Press conference, that the Chinese Nationalist authorities intended to do everything possible to stop ships carrying strategic goods to the ports of Communist China? Is it not clear from these events that there will be a repetition of what happened when British lives were lost a few months ago?

Mr. Birch

The Foreign Secretary stated that British ships, on their lawful occasions, would be protected. I have nothing to add to what my right hon. Friend said.

Mr. Shinwell

That is all very well, but in the absence of details which, obviously, ought not to be disclosed for security reasons and that we understand—will the Parliamentary Secretary say quite categorically whether protection is being afforded to British vessels in the Straits of Formosa?

Mr. Birch

I have nothing to add to my answer.

Mr. Henderson

This is very important. Another British ship was fired upon last week. May I ask the Parliamentary Secretary a straight question —he has the information and the House has not? Is he personally satisfied that everything possible is being done to give physical protection to British ships trading in Chinese coastal waters, and that nothing more could be done, for example, in the way of organising convoys through the Straits of Formosa?

Mr. Birch

I am satisfied that all appropriate steps are being taken.

Mr. Shinwell

If we cannot get a satisfactory answer, or any other kind of answer from the hon. Gentleman, could we get some other Member of the Government to give us a more satisfactory reply?

Mr. Birch

Perhaps the right hon. Gentleman will try.

Mr. Shinwell

I shall, to the best of my ability.