§ 35. Mr. Teelingasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what steps have been taken to date to obtain compensation for British property seized on the Chinese mainland since 1949; and what is proposed to be done in the future.
§ Mr. Ian HarveyRepresentations have been made to the Chinese authorities in those cases in which the owners requested such action. When, as I am sorry to say has been the general rule, the reply received has been unsatisfactory, the full rights of the owners, where they so desire, have been reserved against the time when it may be possible to discuss the matter further with the Chinese authorities.
§ Mr. TeelingDoes my hon. Friend realise that there is a certain feeling among those whom I would call the smaller sufferers in these matters that they are, perhaps, being overlooked in favour of the bigger ones who do not mind so much in the hope that they will get fresh trade with Red China?
§ Mr. HarveyI appreciate the hon. Gentleman's point. The fact that he has brought it out here will, I think, cover it; but if he wishes to give me any further information on the matter, I shall be glad to have it.