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STATEMENT ISSUED BY ARMY

(Received 12.30 p.m.) TOKIO, December 28.

After Mr Hirota handed over the Japanese reply, to Britain, the .Aripy, issued a statement that the \Japanese were not aware of the presence of the foreign vessels oh the Yangtse. They saw on December 11, 10 vessels going upstream, and the commander, believing them to be Chinese, ordered, troops to fire', but the distance was too great. ~v _

A detachment then marched all night, and arrived at Wuhu. on the morning of December 12, and saw-four steamers anchored and belching' smoke. . ,' .. . r . ■, Ordered Gunners To Fire. ■ The commander was' of the, opinion that this was an attempt to-' put lip a smokescreen. He., ordered gunners to ;fire, and he saw shells strike the first and second ships. : Those behind sailed downstream, and one of the two ships hit moved towards Japanese forces on. the river bank.

The Japanese commander then' identified it and ordered ( ‘cease- fired S Meantime, Japanese saw six steamers behind the river delta, and came do the conclusion that they were British, ships hiding and using smokescreens, thus aiding retreating Chinese. - *' Jap. Commander Apologises.

Officers from H.M.S. Bee later landed and had a discussion with the Japanese commander, who apologised, and agreed not to fire qn British ships in future. -■ ’>.

The delay in publishing the Japanese reply caused surprise. It is thought#, possible that it was held back so that the Army statements could be issued.

Permanent link to this item

https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/NA19371229.2.54

Bibliographic details

Northern Advocate, 29 December 1937, Page 5

Word Count
240

STATEMENT ISSUED BY ARMY Northern Advocate, 29 December 1937, Page 5

STATEMENT ISSUED BY ARMY Northern Advocate, 29 December 1937, Page 5

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