asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what consultations were held by his representative on the Far Eastern Commission with the United States representative before the latter's statement on 12th May on the future policy regarding reparations to be paid by Japan.

None, Sir. Consultation on the proposals set out in the statement will properly take place with all interested Governments in the Far Eastern Commission itself.

As the effect of what is already a decision by the American Government to end reparations from Japan will be to restore Japanese industry as German industry has been restored in the West and so once again undercut Britain in her overseas markets, and as the smallest of the satellites, the Philippines have made a vigorous protest—[HON. MEMBERS: "Speech."]—does not my right hon. Friend think he should take his courage into his hands and make a similar protest?

I cannot agree with any of those assumptions. Our attitude will be made clear in due course before the Far Eastern Commission.

Have the Colonial Office, or the colonial authorities who are largely and directly interested in these reparations, been taken into consultation in the past, and will they be represented in the negotiations?

Of course we are in touch and will be in touch with the Colonial Office on matters of this kind.