BRITAIN, JAPAN, AND CHINA

Gisborne Times, Volume XXVII, Issue 2518, 3 June 1909, Page 4

BRITAIN, JAPAN, AND CHINA

THE TAKUMEN RAILWAY DISPUTE.

CHINESE TRICKERY EXPOSED

United Press Association—Copyright (Received Juno 2, 10.25 p.m.) LONDON, June 2. The London “Times” regular correspondent at Pekin and the “Times” Special correspondent sent to Tokio, jointly investigated the Fakuraen railway dispute, and have been shown proofs that China rejected conciliatory proposals before suggesting ai’bitartion. Japan’s proposals, whereon she is still prepared to resume negotiations, were intended to obviate tho danger of extension of the Fakumen line towards Tsisihar. The. “Times” Tokio correspondent emphasises the anxiety displayed by the Japanese Ministry, during tho course of this investigation, to remove all misconceptions concerning the moderation and loyalty of tho Japanese policy. He states, “Never during previous visitis, havo I received more abundant proof of the value attached to British friendship, and the universal belief of the necessity of maintaining the Anglo-Japaneso alliance. Tho Mikado confirmed these sentiments in granting an audience to me, and my

Pekin colleague on May 29th.” The “Times” declares that Japan’s right to veto railways competing with the South Manchurian line is undisputable, and that there is little doubt that China’s object in handling the Manchurian questions is to create friction between Japan and other Powers. The “Times” addds: “By giving the Fakumen contract to a British firm, when warned that the construction would violate the protocol of December, 1905, the Chinese statesmen hopop to embroil us and' our allies. In this they were disappointed. Our alliance and friendship with Japan are based too firmly on the interests of both countries to be seriously affected by such transparent manoeuvres.