§ Mr. L. SMITHasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether work on the unfinished section of the Canton-Hankow railway has yet been commenced with the assistance of funds from the British Boxer indemnity, or at what date such work is likely to be commenced: and to what extent British materials will be used?
§ Sir J. SIMONI have no information to show that work has been begun, though I have seen a Press report to that effect, but the Indemnity Board of Trustees in China have approved of certain sums being advanced to defray the cost of a survey and for construction purposes. I cannot say to what extent British materials will be used. In so far, however, as indemnity funds are utilised for the purchase of material, the matter will be governed by the terms of the indemnity agreement contained in Command Paper 3715.