§ Mr. N. MACLEANasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he is aware that French shells were fired from Chinese ships in the recent brief bombardment of the French concession at Shanghai; whether he is aware that Japanese shippers and merchants are alleged to be supplying Chang Tso-lin with arms; and whether, in view of the terms of the Arms Embargo Agreement of 1919, by which Britain, France, Japan and other nations undertook to stop their subjects from supplying China with munitions of war until a government acceptable to the whole of the country should be established, he has drawn the attention of the responsible authorities in the countries concerned to those breaches of the Agreement?
§ Sir A. CHAMBERLAINI have seen a report in the Press to the effect that the shells fired at Shanghai on the 22nd February last were Hotchkiss six-pounders, but I am not able to confirm this statement. I am aware that the2190W various charges against the different Powers of affording assistance to rival Chinese leaders include an allegation that Chang Tso-lin is supplied with arms by Japanese interests, but I know of no evidence substantiating this report. It would, obviously, be improper for me to approach the French and Japanese Governments on the subject of such unconfirmed rumours.