Mr. PALMERasked whether an understanding has been arrived at between Russia and Japan regarding spheres of influence in Manchuria and Mongolia; if so, the approximate boundaries of each sphere; and whether His Majesty's Government is satisfied that British trade in Manchuria and Mongolia will not be adversely affected?
§ Mr. ACLANDI have nothing to add on the first two questions to the reply given to the hon. Member for Blackburn. As to the third question, I have no reason to suppose that any agreement or understanding has been made or is contemplated that would adversely affect the principle of the "open door" for British commerce in Manchuria and Mongolia. I would call attention to Article 2 of the Convention between Japan and Russia signed 30th July, 1907 (published in State Papers, Volume 101, page 462), by which the two Governments recognise the independence and territorial integrity of China and the principle of equal opportunity there for the commerce and industry of all countries, and undertake to 829W maintain the status quo and the observance of the above principle by all the pacific means at their disposal. I would also refer to the correspondence which took place in 1899–1900, published in China, No. 2, 1900.