THE CHINESE QUESTION.

New Zealand Herald, Volume XXV, Issue 9087, 22 June 1888, Page 5

THE CHINESE QUESTION.

[PRESS ASSOCIATION.] London, June 20. The Government of China are endeavouring to arrive at some satisfactory solution of the Chinese difficulty in Australia. It is freely stated that China is dissatisfied with the Treaty of Tientsin, and that the Chinese Government also appear to be reluctant to ratify the American treaty. It is possible that; the action of the Chinese Minister in negotiating it will be repudiated. Should this be done, it is not likely that a treaty with Britain on a similar basis would be entertained officially. It is suggested that it is not advisable? that Lord Salisbury should negotiate such a treaty. China, regards the singling out of the inhabitants of that country for restriction as invidious, and an unnecessary affront, and the Australian action as offensive and uncalled-foiv A leading Chinese authority remarks : —-i Let Australia imitate Bismarck's passport policy, amend the Immigration Act, and allow none to be admitted unless approved by the British agent at the port of embarkation. It is believed that if this were done China would not object to a restrictive policy, provided it were applied to all foreign, rowers.

Sydney, June 21. Lord Knutsford has communicated with His Excellency the Governor by cable suggesting whether it would not be advisable for the New South Wales Parliament to deal with the present Chinese Bill as to bring it in harmony with the Bill drawn up by the Chinese Conference recently held in Sydney. From this it would appear that the Imperial Government are in favour of the latter Bill. The Government have replied, explaining their position, and stating that they are pledged to proceed with the Bill as it is.