CONCERN IN BRITAIN.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXIX, Issue 21113, 22 February 1932, Page 9

CONCERN IN BRITAIN.

MENACING OUTLOOK. MINISTERS ! N CLOSE TOUCH. AN EMERGENCY COMMITTEE. i By Telegraph—Press Association—Copyright. E'ritish Wireless. RUGBY, Feb. 10. Tho situation in the Far East continues to engage the anxious attention of British Ministers, and a further meeting of the Cabinet Committee was held at the House of Commons this afternoon. Hopes have not vet been abandoned that the peace efforts may prove successful, but the outlook is menacing. Representations have again been made to tho Chinese and Japanese, warning both sides that they will bo held strictly responsible for any loss of life or property of British nationals within the International Settlement caused by tho respective armed forces. A general warning was issued to-day by tho British Consul-General at Shanghai, Mr. F. A. Brenan, pointing out that tho resumption of fighting may be on a large scale, with tho danger of shells falling in the Settlement, especially in tho Hongkew and Yangtsepoo district British subjects have been advised to take cover while fighting is in progress. Tho defences are considered to be sufficient to prevent actual fighting occurring within tho Settlement. A scheme has been prepared for the evacuation of British women and children from Shanghai should such a step become necessary. The situation has necessitated the Admiralty and War Office remaining open alf night until further notice, as was the case during the Great War. An emergency committee of Cabinet Ministers, including Mr. Stanley Baldwin, Sir John Simon, Viscount Ilailshain, Sir Eyres-Monsell, Sir Samuel Hoarc, Mr. Neville Chamberlain and Mr. J. 11. Thomas, has been formed and is ready to meet at an hour's notice at any time of tho flay or night. Tl\o Ministers have cancelled their week-end engagements.