OUR CABLE NEWS.

New Zealand Herald, Volume XL, Issue 12267, 11 May 1903, Page 5

OUR CABLE NEWS.

The situation in the Par -Bast has assumed a very serious aspect, owing to the aggression and warlike preparations of Russia, which are interpreted as an intimation that she is prepared to fight to maintain possession of Manchuria. She is I increasing her forces and constructing forts. It is also stated that Russian troops have entered Oorea, and that the Corean Government is protesting against such an invasion. The American Secretary of State Las asked President Roosevelt to authorise joint action with Britain and Japan to compel Russia to evacuate Manchuria. As regards the situation in the Balkans, Russia has warned the Sultan that in the event of a conflict neither party need hope to secure any ultimate benefit. The French Minister for Foreign Affairs states that King Edward's visit is regarded in France as an act of friendsnip and a spontaneous testimony of esteem which is very precious to the Republic. Sincere neighbourly relations between England and France are, he says, highly desirable. The Transvaal loan has been covered thirtyfold. The Natal Parliament is practically Unanimous in favour of a preferential tariff with Great Britain, but a large majority in Ae Cape Parliament is said to be against it. In connection with the lynching of two Italians, the Italian Acting-Minister ioi Forfclgn Affairs considers the failure to suppress lyncumg is unworthy of a nation in the van °f civilisation. A Bill to legalise picketing and to prohibit actions against trade unions *« such introduced in the House of Commons was opposed by the Government and Ejected. Mr. Balfour said it would be ad visable that the whole question as regards combinations of workmen, employers, o> capitalists, should be investigated by a Cummassioa.