RUSSIAN AND JAPAN.

Manawatu Standard, 29 July 1904, Page 5

RUSSIAN AND JAPAN.

A Critical Situation.

Breach of International Law.

On the iiriuk of a "New War.

(Per Press Association—Copyright) : , '', " \-•'-'"" -" LONDON. July 25." LoydV^^. ; risks-fcave been ci.oubJod. since Tuesday. , TTAA.o-* ' x'cY o*tcd in '^. lobbf of. the -tlouse . of Commons that a peremptory, message has been despatched to bt,< I etcrsburg protesting- i n ' the strong-est language against the Knight Commander outraoe. The newspaper Russky .Wiedomosti warns the Russians and British;' that the navies, of Germany and Trance arc able . immediately to cl oso' the Baltic ports a]li d bombard ttie coast.

Mr Balfour/ i n the House of Commons, said he hopes to make a statement in reference to the Malacca and other seizures to-day. Referring t to .the regrettable incident of the knight Commander, he tearod that Russia had committed a breach of international law. The Paris Debats considers tho ixussian seizures ought to be guided' less by right than by considerations of the policy of opportuaieness. It is questionable if they will intercept suhicient contraband to compensate Tor the diplomatic risks with Eri- I tarn and the United States. . I

A prolonged meeting G f the Defence Committee was held, Mr Balifour presiding-. Sir Robert B. Finlay, K.C., Attorney-General, attended. .