asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether the United States Government has conveyed any invitation to His Majesty's Government to take part in an international conference affecting China; and, if so, whether he can state its nature and the attitude thereto of His Majesty's Government?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN:

As I stated in reply to similar questions on the 1st July, His Majesty's Government are consulting with the other Governments concerned as to the reply to be returned to the Chinese Government's request for such a conference. In the course of these consultations, suggestions as to the policy to be adopted have been received from the United States Government and other Governments, and are now under consideration. Meanwhile, I cannot add to the statements already made in regard to the attitude of His Majesty's Government.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware of the statement alleged to have been made by M. Vandervelde on this subject, which was referred to in an article in the "Times" of a few days ago?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN:

No, Sir. At the moment I do not identify that statement.