THE LATEST.

Manawatu Standard, Volume XL, Issue 7899, 27 July 1904, Page 5

THE LATEST.

Russia's Raid on Foreign Shipping;.

Appeal to the British Premier

Strong Representations to

Eussia.

An Inexcusable Outrage

The Passing of the BanlanelJes

The Position Serious.

Received July 27, 7.17 a.m. LONDON, -July 20. The Premier, the Hon. A. J. Bailfour, in speaking tea deputation of shipowners, stated Sir. A. ___.- Hardinge,British Minister in St Petersburg, had been directed to make a siron« representation to the Russian Gov" ernment about the Allanton.-

The Times states the sinking of the British steamer Knight Commander ia the worst outrage yet committed, and was absolutely inexcusable unless resistance was offered, and is" a gross violation of neutral rights. Even if a part of the cargo was contraband, under Russia's extravagantly wide definition, yet the ship's destruction makes all investigation aud adjudication by a competent Court impossible.

The Times urges that during- the war a committee comprising representatives, of the Foreign Offices, Admiralty, Lloyds and two international jurists ought to remain in session at the office and deal with such cases..

Replying to; a specific i]<c£.viry if the Government proposed to submit to .The Hague •'Tribunal the question whether the passage of the Dardanelles by the volunteer iieet was consistent with treaties, tho Hon. A. J. Balfour-said the matter was forbidden on the ground that it raised a controversy which could-be better settled if no further statement was made at present.