FAR EASTERN CRISIS.

Manawatu Standard, Volume LII, Issue 69, 20 February 1932, Page 6

FAR EASTERN CRISIS.

While the League of . Nations, is doing its utmost, notwithstanding its limitations, to. prevent a recurrence of hostilities at Shanghai, Japan and China seem determined to fight their bitter quarrel to the end. The outlook was brighter on Thursday when the leaders of the two armies met on neutral ground, but the conference ended in failure as the Chinese refused the Japanese demand to retire at least 12 miles from their positions. An ultimatum to this effect has been delivered to the Chinese forces. It will expire at midnight this evening when, it seems most likely, warfare will again be: resumed with its serious menace to. the inhabitants of the International Settle-, ment. The death of two British sailors from a bursting Chinese shell, which fell in the Settlement, emphasises the danger to neutral citizens. Sir John Simon’s statement in the House of Commons on Wednesday covered a despatch from the. Council of the League of Nations to both, parties- appealing for a solution of the dispute without further application to force. The danger of the breach, now extensive, becoming widened to the point where disaster may be threatened to the world was stressed by the Council, which particularly appeals to Japan to remember her obligations under the Covenant of the League and the Pact of Paris. The appeal also recalls Japan’s express undertaking under Article 10 of the Covenant, which is a binding obligation to preserve againßt aggression the territorial integrity and political independence of the members of the League. Her respopsibility under the Nine Power Treaty is also emphasised, and the position of China, which has placed its case in the hands of the League, contrasted with Japan’s intransigent attitude. Although China more recently has asked' for the convocation of the Assembly of the League to try her case, it is believed the dispute can be better handled under the powers contained in the articles which have already been invoked. Japan cannot ignore the latest' appeal to her honour without incurring further displeasure of the Powers. Her rights are recognised, but she.is urged to act as a signatory to the peace treaties is bound to do when a dispute with another nation arises.