Grave Tension

Hawke's Bay Tribune, Volume XXII, Issue 35, 25 January 1932, Page 8

Grave Tension

JAP. ACTIVITY POLICY OF FORCE TO OBTAIN REDRESS. APPREHENSION IN SHANGHAI. ■ • Shanghai, January 24. An atmosphere of the gravest tension prevails here to-day, as the Japanese are making preparations to occupy the native districts failing a satisfactory reply to their demands from the Chinese. The arrival of additional warships, the landing of marines and general military activity in wayside districts indicate that the Japanese are determined on a policy of force to obtain redress for the recent anti-Nipponese activities and attacks on nationals. The Japanese naval commander here unhesitatingly stated that armed forces would occupy the surrounding native districts, the arsenal and Government buildings, and retain possession until satisfaction was obtained.

Tho British and French military authorities arc watching tho situation with anxiety. Tho Nanking Government is undecided what to do. A declaration of war is considered impracticable, owing to the lack of sufficient armed forces, A decision is expected momentarily, and it is believed it will be along tho lines that the Chinese arc prepared to punish those responsible for tho attack on Japanese priests, but arc unable to agree to the dissolution of anti-Japanesc associations. It is regarded as certain that tho reply will bo unsatisfactory, compelling the Japan, esc to resort to force. VIOLENT EXPLOSION.

A violent explosion occurred in the vicinity of the Chinese arsenal this afternoon. The roar was heard for miles. There was widespread window damage throughout Shanghai, and between 30 and 40 Chinese were killed. The incident has added considerably to the tenseness of the prevailing situation. It, appears that the Chinese were transferring explosives from tho magazine to lighters in consequence of the Japanese invasion when the explosion occurred. The “New York Times' ” Washing ton correspondent states that tho land ing of Japanese forces in Shanghai today has caused apprehension because of the added complication it might produce in the Sino-Japanese controversy over Manchuria, and the possibility that it might lead to difficulties with other Powers through untoward incidents. The Undor-Sccretary of State, Mt Castle, discussed the situation with Mr Hoover, after which it was announced that the Government was making no direct move this time.