BRITAIN AND CHINA.

Ashburton Guardian, Volume 49, Issue 68, 31 December 1928, Page 6

BRITAIN AND CHINA.

COMMENT ON NEW TREATY.

(United Press Association—Copyright.) LONDON, Friday.

The "Manchester Guardian," commenting on the Anglo-Chinese Treaty, says:— "A ceremonial treaty and a formal act of recognition together mark the turning point in Anglo-Chinese relations, the ultimate consequences of which are likely to be profound. The conclusion of the treaty required the formal recognition of the Nanking Government, and the two acts together constitute the most definite proof that has yet been given that our assurances of sympathy for Chinese national aspirations have been sincere, and will be carried into practical effect." The "Daily Telegraph" also emphasises that if the direct commercial advantages likely to be gained are small, and have not disposed British traders in China to enthusiasm, the new treaty as a diplomatic achievement is not to be minimised. "It is no inconsiderable advantage to have placed, on a regular footing the collection of surtaxes hitherto levied arbitrarily and separately, and it is to be hoped that, the whole of the duties will be collected henceforth by the single agency of the maritime customs, to the advantage both of the Government and the trading community. "As for the likin (salt tax) if Nanking cannot abolish it, it is certain that no other authority can."