§ Captan DOWERasked the Secretary to the Overseas Trade Department whether, in view of the fact that three British Consular representatives are still maintained in Manchukuo despite the fact that this country is not officially recognised, he will consider the desirability of appointing a trade commissioner, in order that no opportunity for maintaining and developing trade relations may be lost pending further developments?
§ Lieut.-Colonel COLVILLEIn August, 1930, a commercial secretary was appointed to reside at Harbin, but it was found in practice that there was more urgent need for his services elsewhere, and he was accordingly withdrawn and transferred to Peking. British trade interests in Manchuria are, however, adequately represented by His Majesty's Consular officers. I fully appreciate the importance of the point raised by my hon. and gallant Friend, but I can assure him that the position will be carefully watched.