asked the Secretary of State for War whether, since the military authorities are responsible for the provision of consumer goods of all kinds for the population of Hong Kong up to a minimum standard, he will state the nature and volume of the goods so far delivered; and whether all relief needs have now been met.
From the earliest days of liberation essential relief supplies have been sent to Hong Kong, consisting in the main of foodstuffs and coal. It should be noted, however, that whilst the relief supplies imported during the military period include a limited quantity of consumer goods, they could not be said to embrace "consumer goods of all kinds." In order to give the actual tonnages, a reference has been necessary to the Supreme Commander South East Asia, but I will write to the hon. and gallant Member when they are available.