BRITAIN AND CHINA.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXV, Issue 20131, 17 December 1928, Page 10

BRITAIN AND CHINA.

The emergence of a new China from the prolonged chaos of the civil war is beset with difficulties, but Mr. Locker Lampson's announcement concerning recent events shows that some advance is being made. A new customs tariff, framed according to agreement reached with tho foreign Powers in 1926, has been promulgated by tho National Government now in control, and negotiations are proceeding for a treaty between it and the British Government. It is apparent, however, that these negotiations are not being conducted by Britain's representative with undue optimism. Caution is necessary. To conclude a treaty with the National Government would amount to recognition of that Government by Britain, and it is not yet convincingly clear that the Nationalists are adequately able to speak for all China. Tho attitude of Britain was outlined in a speech by Sir Austen Chamberlain on the occasion of tho departure of the British delegation to the Tariff Confercnco at Peking in 1925. "Our only wish," he said, "is for a strong, united, independent, orderly and prosperous China; wo, on our side, will contribute all we can; wo aro ready to meet China half-way; wo aro ready to relinquish special rights just in proportion as the Chinese Government can assure to our nationals tho due enjoyment of tho ordinary rights of foreigners in their country." That is still Britain's attitude. When the Nationalists give proof that they have provided China with a dc facto Government there will bo no British reluctance to recognise it as a de jure Government. Examination of the Nationalists' claim to be in a position of adequate security and influence is an indispensable prelude to completion of a treaty with them. Further news will be eagerly awaited.