SIAM.

New Zealand Times, Volume LV, Issue 9961, 24 July 1893, Page 2

SIAM.

By Electric Telegraph.—Copvhiout. (press association.) London, July 21. Sir Edward Grey, in the House of Commons, said the French warships at Bangkok had not observed the treaty, though there was reason to believe that the breach was not wilfully committed. He declined to ask Franco to extend the time for the receipt of the answer to the ultimatum.

The Siamese have out the telegraph line between Bangkok and Saigon. The French warships at Bangkok are training their guns on pass-ng Siamese vessels.

China is supporting Siam, and Russia is aiding France. LATER. WAR VESSELS DESPATCHED. (Received July 23, C. 30 p.m.) Bangkok, July 22. The French demands embrace the cession of 95,000 square miles, including a province which was ceded by Burmah lo Siam on condition that it was never handed over to any other power, also 50.000 miles in North-East Siam, whore the French have never advanced. The indemnity previously claimed was only 200.000 francs. . It is believed that the attack is really directed against England. The Siamese Government is likely to pay the money, but will resist the cession of tf-rritory. Siam is seeking the advice of England in the matter. London, July 22. It is stated that 600 of the French Legion are proceeding to Siam. Germany is sending two warships into Siamese waters to protect German interests

The Standard and many other journals state that England cannot assent to the territorial claims of France being acceded to. They allege that the French demands would deprive Siam of all utility as an independent State. In response to the orders of the Cabinet, Vice-Admiral Fremantle (H.M S. Imperieuse), who is in charge of the China Station, is hastening on to Singapore, to bo in readiness should the fleet be required. The greater portion of the Chinese fleet also is hurrying towards Siam.

Paris, July 22. It is generally considered that tho Earl of Dufferin’s return to Paris is a pledge of peace, and will help to remove the difficulties in the way of settling tho Siam dispute. Tho French Government have refused to grant the request of tho Siamese Government for the extension of time for a reply to the ultimatum.