THE SIAMESE QUESTION.

South Canterbury Times, Issue 7269, 24 July 1893, Page 1

THE SIAMESE QUESTION.

(Per Electric Telegraph—Copyright.

(Per Press Association.)

(Received 11.80 a.m., July 22nd.) London, July 21.

The Siamese have cut the telegraph line between Bangkok and Saigon. The French warships at Bangkok are training their guns on passing Siamese vessels. China is supporting Siam and Russia is aiding France.

(Received 6,30 p.m., July 23rd.)

Bangkok, July 23.

The French demands embrace the cession of 95,000 square miles, including a Province which was ceded by Burmah to Siam on condition that it was never to be banded over to another power, also 50,000 miles in north-east Siam, where 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 are likely to pay the money, but will resist the cession of territory. Siam is seeking the advice of England in the matter.

London, July 22,

It is stated that 500 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 her status as an independent State. In response to the order of the Cabinet Vice-Admiral Freemantle, of H.M.S. Imperieuse, in charge of the China Station, is hastening on to Singapore to be in readiness should the fleet be required. The greater portion of the Chinese fleet is also hurrying towards Siam.

Pabis, J uly 22,

It is generally considered that the Earl of Dufferin’s return to Paris is a pledge of peace, and will help to remove the difficulty in the way of settling the Siam dispute.

The French Government have refused to grant the request of the Siamese Government for an extension of time for reply to the ultimatum.