asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he is aware that, the people of Korea have declared a Republic; whether the sovereignty of Korea was recognised by Britain and Japan in the Anglo-Japanese treaties of 1905; and whether the British Government, is prepared to recognise the Republic of Korea which has now been established?

The international status of Korea is governed by the Treaty of the 22nd August, 1910, by which Korea was annexed to Japan; the annexation was recognised by Great Britain as well as by the other Powers interested.

Can the hon. Gentleman say whether the consent of the Koreans was asked before they were handed over to Japan?

I should like to make research into that before I answer. Perhaps the hon. Member will put down a question.