asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he is aware that the Japanese military authorities have demanded a wireless station, an aerodrome, and military headquarters in Inner Mongolia; and what steps he proposes to take in the matter, in view of the terms of the Nine Power Treaty?

A report recently reached me to the effect that suggestions had been made for a Japanese Military Mission and wireless station in Inner Mongolia. On the information at my disposal I do not consider that any action by His Majesty's Government is called for.

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he has received any recent information from His Majesty's Ambassador to China as to the political situation in Inner and Outer Mongolia, respectively; and, in particular, whether the tribal leaders in these areas are inclined to look for support either to Russia or to Japan?

According to the latest reports received, the situation in Inner Mongolia is generally normal. Certain changes in the administration of Chahar province and in the disposition of the Chinese troops there have recently formed a subject of discussion between the Japanese and Chinese military authorities in North China; and it is believed that a settlement of these questions is in sight. I have no recent information regarding the present political situation in Outer Mongolia. As regards the last part of the question, my hon. and gallant Friend will be aware that conditions in Inner Mongolia are quite distinct from those which prevail in Outer Mongolia, and that the former area is, to a much greater extent than the latter, under the influence of the Nanking Government. There are divergences of opinion among the leaders in both areas, and I should prefer not to draw any general inference of the nature indicated by my hon. and gallant Friend.

In view of the rumours that there is a revival of nationalist feeling in Mongolia and that there is a chance of Inner and Outer Mongolia coming together, is it not vitally important to find out what the tendency is and with which neighbour they will join up, Japan or Russia? Will the right hon. Gentleman ask for a report from His Majesty's Ambassador in Pekin?

I will consider my hon. and gallant Friend's suggestion, but for the moment I have given the information at my disposal.