CHINA’S DEFENCE.

Manawatu Standard, Volume LVII, Issue 231, 30 August 1937, Page 7

CHINA’S DEFENCE.

PLANNED WITHDRAWAL. “IMPREGNABLE LINE.” (United Press Association —By Electric Telegraph—Copyright.) LONDON, Aug. 29. Foreign observers at Shanghai confirm reports that the' Chinese regulars have withdrawn from the perimeter of foreign areas and have been replaced by militiamen. The Chinese Military Spokesman denied a report that they were withdrawing to a line 35 miles from Shanghai, and said that the withdrawal was at most two miles. Other reports state that the Chinese are forming an impregnable Hindenburg line. The British United Press agency correspondent at Shanghai, says the Chinese admit that they are having the greatest difficulty in stemming the Japanese from Woosung. There were heavy Chinese casualties near Lotien. The Japanese Spokesman promises a major offensive within three days. He estimates that 96,000 Chinese will confront the Japanese, in consequence of which more reinforcements will be landed.

The evacuation of male Japanese civilians from Tsingtao suggests, that Shantung will next be drawn into the war zone.

Chinese artillery shelled Hongkew, directing fire on the main market, which is surrounded by Japanese clubs and institutions. Several people were killed- and wounded. Foreign diplomats have requested that Japanese ’planes shall not attack non-military positions at Nanking. _ . The Japanese Spokesman, further elucidating the blockade of Shanghai, said that Japan will not interfere with foreign shipping' even when carrying arms. The British and American Chambers of Commerce at Shanghai urge their respective Governments to ensure the cessation of Chinese and . Japanese flights over the International Settlement as they jeopardise life and property.