CHINA AND THE POWERS.

Ashburton Guardian, Volume XXI, Issue 4750, 15 March 1899, Page 2

CHINA AND THE POWERS.

The Action of Italy. Recall of Her Minister. United Preßs Association—By Eltotric [Telegraph—Copyright Fekin, March 13 Tsung-li-Yamen asked for the return of the despatch from Signor Martino, Italian Minister at Fekin, Russia has promised China her moral support m resisting Italy's claim. London, March 14 Mr Brodrick, answering criticisms, said Great Britain's attitude was simply approval of Italy's diplomatic action m a new sphere of interest. If Italy persuaded China to grant concessions guaranteeing Italian interest! Great Britain would welcome Italy's presence ; meanwhile she would support her diplomatically.

Mr Courtney deprecated the provocative policy which was assisting m the disintegration of China. Sir E. Grey said the isolation of Great Britain was more than ever impossible. She must be m touch with others.

It is stated that Signor Martino, m asking for the acceptance of hii despatch and the resumption of negotiations, contravened his instructions. The Italian Government have, therefore, recalled him. Italian interests m China have meanwhile been entrusted to Sir Claude McDonald, British Minister, with Lord Salisbury's consent. The Times's Rome correspondent states that the disavowal of Martino's action caused surprise and stupor. His recall is probably due to his excessive mildness, and may possibly be for the purpose of persuading the Tsung-li-Yamen of Italy's resoluteness. It is probable that the instructions to Signor Martino were for the withdrawal of the eflensive Chinese note. Tokio, March 14 Signor Orfani, Italian Minister at Tokio, has been instructed to supersede Signor Martino at Pekln. Hqn'<3 Kqnq, March 14 It is reported at Shanghai that Great Britain has seized the Mio-tao Islands, Shantung, {The Mia-toa Islands consist of a group of small islands at the entrance to the Gulf of Pe-chi-li, north of the province of Slum, tung.)