Written question asked by Nicholas Scott (Conservative), in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 25 March 1996. It was answered by Nicholas Bonsor (Conservative) on Monday, 25 March 1996 on behalf of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

Foreign and Commonwealth Office

Question: If he will comment on recent interference in recognised international sea and air routes by China in respect of launching missiles, firing munitions and conducting manoeuvres; and to what extent Chinese notification of these accorded with acceptable international practice.

Answer: Sir Nicholas Scott: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will make a statement about recent interference in recognised international sea and air routes by China in respect of launching missiles, firing munitions and conducting manoeuvres; and to what extent Chinese notification of these accorded with acceptable international practice.[22211] Sir Nicholas Bonsor: I have been asked to reply. Since 8 March, the Chinese navy and air force have been conducting military exercises in the Taiwan straits. For this purpose, they have established and duly notified a series of maritime and air exclusion zones. While diversions by ships and aircraft may have been necessary, the Chinese exercises have not prevented transit passage through the straits. Although China is not yet a state party to the United Nations convention on the law of the sea, her actions, including notification procedures, appear to be in general conformity with international practice.

Secondary information