Martyn Jones, M.P., House of Commons, London SW1A OAA
Bryn Dwr Llandegla Wrexham Clwyd.
14th January 1991
Eucar Martyn,
Nia.
I am writing to express my deep disapproval of the reported actions of the Chinese authorities in desecrating the graves of Royal Navy personnel. In April, 1949, some 41 sailors, including the commanding officer of the frigate Amethyst, were killed by Chinese communist gunfire directed from the north bank of the Yangtse River. H.M. ships Amethyst, Consort and London were prominently displaying Union Flags and were on lawful business in attempting to assist the British community in Nanking. Subsequently, 23 of those who were killed, were buried near to the city of Shanghai, which was then under the control of the Nationalists. It now appears that the graves of these seamen have been bulldozed in order to make ready the ground for building. Would it be possible for you to question the Foreign Office concerning the veracity of this report, and if confirmed, to roundly denounce the actions of the authorities concerning the perpetration of this heinous act? Further, what does the Foreign Office intend to do about it? I am sure that there are many relatives and friends of these seamen who are presently experiencing extreme distress in consequence of the Chinese works.
Would it also be possible to ascertain whether protection of military cemeteries in Hong Kong has been guaranteed, after we have handed over that Colony, in 1997?
I would be very much obliged to you, if you find that you are able to pursue these enquiries, in the near future.
Best wishes,
Yours sincerely,
E
Zamba
Norman Chambers.
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