asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether the existing position in China has been brought to the attention of the League of Nations, and what action has been taken by the League of Nations thereon?

The state of affairs to China has not been brought to the attention of the League of Nations. The second part of my hon. Friend's question, therefore, does not arise.

Can the hon. Gentseman inform the House why this very important matter has not been brought to the attention of the League of Nations, especially as the representative of China is a member of the Council of the League?

We think that at the present moment it would not serve any useful purpose to bring it before the League. [HON. MEMBERS: "Why not?"] Anyhow, I think we certainly ought to await the Report of our new Minister to China, who is now on his way to Hankow.

Captain BENN:

Is it not a fact that the Chinese delegate attempted to raise the subject in the League, and that his action was criticised by our own representative?

It is certainly true that some very inaccurate statements were made by the Chinese delegate.

Captain BENN:

Then we may take it that, from the Chinese point of view, an attempt has already been made to raise the matter?