HC Deb 14 December 1938 vol 342 cc2001-2W
Commander Marsden

asked the Prime Minister whether he is aware that the Japanese Government allege as an obstacle to the resumption of foreign shipping on the Yangtze, that there is at present no room for more than one ship at a time to pass through the Kiangin boom, and that they have not had the time in which to remove this obstruction; and whether His Majesty's Government propose to direct His Majesty's ships to remove the boom across this international highway?

Mr. Butler

The Japanese Government claim that the Kiangyin boom has been opened only sufficiently to provide for passage of Japanese warships and military transports. The difficulties arising from the position are at present under review.

Sir J. Haslam

asked the Prime Minister whether he is aware that the Japanese authorities at Tsingtao have placed an embargo on the export of cotton yarns as from 6th December; and what steps he is taking to stop this interference with British trade?

Mr. Butler

An embargo on the export of cotton (not specifically cotton yarns) from Tientsin was promulgated on 6th December. The matter is now under consideration, and I shall be glad to examine any information which my hon. Friend can give me on the particular position at Tsingtao.