BLOCKADE OF PORTS

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXVI, Issue 23401, 18 July 1939, Page 9

BLOCKADE OF PORTS

JAPAN'S RIGHT REJECTED ATTITUDE OF THREE POWERS STATEMENT BY ADMIRAL By Telegraph—Press Association—Copyright Independent Cable Service (Received July 18, 12.15 a.m.) LONDON, July 17 It is reported from Hongkong that the British, American and French Embassies rejected the Japanese demand for the right to blockade Tungshan, Chaohsin and Chuanchow. The blockade began yesterday, the Japanese enclosing the harbour with mines and booms. The embassies informed the Japanese naval authorities that they will be held responsible for the protection of lives and property of foreign subjects. The arrival of H.M.S. Cornwall at Tsingtao resulted in the abandonment of an anti-British demonstration. An Australian Associated Press message from Shanghai says that ViceAdmiral Koiulo, Commander in South China waters, said it was expected that the extension of the blockade to Hinghwa and Swabue might affect the outlook of officials at Kulangsu. It is believed the move is intended further to reduce Kulangsu's food supplies, and might affect those of Hongkong. The British escort vessel Falmouth, has arrived at Tsingtao. The entire Chinese staff of the British Embassy has resigned as the result of Japanese intimidation.