RAILWAY OFFER

Southland Times, Issue 22011, 10 May 1933, Page 5

RAILWAY OFFER

RUSSIA WANTS TO SELL MILITARY HELPLESSNESS IMPLIED JAPAN NOT A BUYER (United Press Assn.— Telegraph Copyright.) (Rec. 8.55 p.m.) London, May 9. “The Soviet’s offer to _ sell to Japan its control and interests in the Chinese Eastern Railway implies Moscow s military helplessness in the Far East, says the diplomatic correspondent ot the Daily Telegraph. “This is known to Japan, who is unlikely to pay a big price nor will Moscow’s gesture of conciliation necessarily deter Japan from eventually claiming and occupying on Manchukuo’s behalf Siberia’s eastern maritime provinces.” The Tokio correspondent of Ihe Times says that M. Litvinoff proposes immediate negotiations for the sale of the railway, but the difficulties include certain French rights. It is also pointed out that all the Soviet can sell is the right of joint management for 36 years based on the economic value,,irrespective of political or strategical considerations. Moscow is reported to be asking £30,000,000 for the railway. Russia has also been reminded that she owes Japan £21,000,000. JAPAN REJECTS OFFER. (United Press Assn.— Telegraph Copyright.) (Rec. 8 p.m.) Kobe, May 9. The Japanese have rejected the Russian railway offer, declaring that it is Manchukuo’s business. Besides the railway is deteriorating in vaiue. Apparently hard bargaining is proceeding with the hope of acquiring the railway for little or nothing. CHINESE ALARMED SALE OF EASTERN RAILWAY. (United Press Assn.— Telegraph Copyright.) Shanghai, May 8. With regard to the Chinese Eastern Railway, it is now reported that the Soviet has offered to sell its interests to Japan for 300,000,000 roubles, which offer is alarming Nanking officials who propose to direct the attention of foreign Governments to the invalidity of any such agreement, stressing the inviolability of Chinese rights and interests.