HC Deb 02 March 1953 vol 512 cc16-7
19. Air Commodore Harvey

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what payments have now been made by the Chinese National Government as compensation for damage and interference with British shipping.

Mr. Selwyn Lloyd

Only two claims for compensation for damage to, or interference with, British shipping by Chinese Nationalist forces have been submitted by Her Majesty's Consul at Tamsui. One of these arose out of a machine-gun attack by aircraft on the motor vessel "Glenearn" in July, 1950, in which the First Officer was injured and the ship damaged. The Nationalist authorities have admitted responsibility and, last September, agreed to pay the claim, amounting to £11,600, in full, although payment has not yet been received. The other case was that of the s.s. "Rosita," which was dealt with in my right hon. Friend's answer to the right hon. and learned Member for Rowley Regis and Tipton (Mr. A. Henderson) on 23rd February.

Air Commodore Harvey

In view of the necessity to maintain British prestige in the Far East, is it not about time that this claim, which was admitted last September, was paid, and will Her Majesty's Government really impress upon the Formosan Government that they wish this to be paid at the earliest possible opportunity and that they do not propose to wait for it?

Mr. Lloyd

There has been a delay in the paying of this claim, but it does not appear to be a wilful delay. It is due to some technicalities over payment being made through certain accounts which are in the United Kingdom. We are still seeking to negotiate a method of payment.

Mr. A. J. Irvine

Two British lives were lost in connection with incidents of this character, and can the Minister of State tell the House whether that was taken into account in the two claims to which he has referred, or are they considered as separate incidents?

Mr. Lloyd

From recollection, I do not think a life was involved in the first case of the "Glenearn," but so far as the "Rosita" was concerned there was a life lost and that matter is being borne in account.