INDIGNATION IN BRITAIN

Manawatu Standard, Volume LVII, Issue 230, 28 August 1937, Page 9

INDIGNATION IN BRITAIN

WOUNDING OF AMBASSADOR DIPLOMATIC ACTION PROPOSED (United Press Association.—By Electric Telegraph.— Copyright.) (British Official Wireless.) Received August 28, 11.12 a.m. RUGBY,. Aug. 27. The entire British Press expresses indignation over the incident in which the British Ambassador to China, Sir Hughe Knatchbull-Hugessen, while motoring to Shanghai from Nanking, was bombed and machine-gunned by Japanese planes. The Japanese, Ambassador, on the instructions of his Government, called on the Foreign Secretary (Air R. A. Eden) to express deep regret at the incident. A Foreign Office statement says the Giiverninent is obtaining certain further information on the circumstances and thereafter wall be in a position to take appropriate action with the Japanese Government through the Embassy at Tokio. Many representatives of foreign Powers, including the Soviet, France, Germany, and China, have called at the Foreign Office to express the sympathy of their Governments at the wouuding of Sir Hughe Knatchbull-Hugessen. Air Eden has telegraphed Air Cordell Hull, expressing sincere thanks for his message of sympathy and appreciation of the kind thought which prompted him to send it. Newspaper comment on the incident displays restraint in tone, showing that British opinion is itself able to observe the sense of proportion in dealing with wrongs and affronts which British writers have recently found it desirable to recommend to others. Nevertheless, it is revealed that deep indignation is felt. Admiration is expressed for the fortitude with which the wounded Ambassador bore the journey to hospital, and there is keen anxiety concerning his recovery. The latest message received in London states that Sir Hughe is more comfortable and is suffering less pain. Air It. Howe, who for three years has been counsellor to the British Embassy in China, but who recently visited England on leave, is leaving immediately for China to take charge during the Ambassador’s incapacitation. Ho intends to travel by air to Saigon.