HC Deb 17 September 1931 vol 256 cc1044-5W
Sir C. CAYZER

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what action, if any, the Foreign Office has taken in regard to the incident at Hankow, on 4th August, when British and American subjects were at tacked by Chinese coolies and were taken to a Chinese prison, where they were refused permission for some time to communicate with their respective Consuls; if he will give the full facts of this incident; and whether any of a similar nature have occurred in other parts of China?

Captain EDEN

I cannot give the full facts of this incident, since there has not been time for a detailed report by despatch to reach the Foreign Office, but telegraphic summaries bear out my hon. Friend's general description of it. Repeated and energetic representations have been made to the Chinese authorities, as the result of which a Chinese police officer has been punished and dismissed, and further disciplinary action is contemplated. No incidents of a similar nature have been reported from other parts of China.