THE FAR EAST.

Thames Star, Volume XXX, Issue 9028, 28 March 1898, Page 2

THE FAR EAST.

Press Association—Electric Telegraph—Copyright

London, March 26

The Times, dealing with the sit'iaf,ian in China, asserts that Lord SaH <- bury's vacillation has assisted ths rivals of Britain to effect a political and economic revolution in China, and contends that it is imperatively neci s sary that England should re establish her influence at Pekin. The paper urges that a strong naval demonstration be made by the ] British Fleet in the Gulf of Pe-chi-li, and says that Britain's recital of admirable formulas will not prevent the partitionjof China. The Times further asserts "that the membsrs of the Commons regard the situation as exceedingly grave, and deplore the official reticence of the Government in the matter. The paper adds that the Opposition could not oppose a vigorous policy if adopted by the Government. The English journals generally complain of Lord Salisbury's weakness in regard to British policy. The influential merchants of London contend that the efforts so far made by Britain with a view to maintaining the independence of China have failed. They urge the occupation of the island of Chusan and Koroloon Peninsula, as , a necessary safeguard to British in- ' torests in the Vallpy of the Yang-tse-Kiang and Hong Kong. i Pekin, March 26. Russia has agreed that Talienwan

shall bo an open port under the superintendence of the necessary officials, with a tariff similar to that of the Chinese treaty ports. She undertakes to pay China the Customs revenue of the port after the expenses of collection are deducted.

Hong Kong, March 26

It is believed that Russia and China have agreed to prevent Britain acquiring Weihewhei, and that Russia undertakes to protect China from the British in return for concession in Corea.

Japan will not oppose Russia in the Liatong Peninsula. The Hongkong naval yards are working night and day, The British warships in port are loading coal and ammunition, preparing to leave for sea on Tuesday next.