GAS EXPLOSION

Southland Times, Issue 20494, 24 May 1928, Page 7

GAS EXPLOSION

HAMBURG AFFAIR CONDITION OF AFFECTED PERSONS BECOMING MORE SERIOUS (United Press Assn.—By Telegraph—Copyright.) London, May 23. The Hamburg correspondent of The Tinies says the hospitals are still treating 250 cases of those affected by the gas explosion, and the cases which at first appear, ed to be slight are now becoming more seri ous. Several hitherto who were apparently unaffected have been admitted to hospital to-day. Stohenburg’s say the leakage is unexplainable, inasmuch as the tanks were periodically tested and carefully supervised. The authorities are demanding to know why gas sufficient to wipe out the population of Hamburg was stored fti ordinary instead of steel-lined tanks.—Times Cables. SEVEN CRITICALLY ILL. GAS BELIEVED FROM RUSSIA. Berlin, May 22. Ninety-five are still in hospital at Hamburg. Seven are in a critical condition, and the state of 26 is serious, though the doctors hope to save them. Gas-helmeted men are parading the deserted streets, reminiscent of war time. It will be days before people can return to their homes. Officials deny knowledge of the existence of the gas, though there are allegations that it was manufactured in Russia as an emergency supply against disturbances during the Ruhr occupation.—Australian Press Association. AN INQUIRY PENDING. (Rec. 8.10 p.m.) Berlin, May 23. With reference to the suggestion that the League of Nations should investigate the Hamburg poison gas episode it is semiofficially stated that the manufacture of phosgene is allowed under the implements of war law in factions specially licensed by the Ministry of Trade. Whether the Hamburg gas conformed to the law will be the subject of an inquiry. If the law has been infringed a prosecution will follow.— Australian Press Association.