THE OUTLOOK.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 6140, 29 March 1898, Page 3

THE OUTLOOK.

1 ' JLUIJ. " v " * PROTECTION*!)!? BRITISH ' COALING STATIONS. WAR KATES~Vn EASTERN CARGOES. ; STOCK EXCHANGE DEPRESSION, • LORD SALISBURY'S DEPAR- ; TURE. '■ AMMUNITION FOR THE VOLUNTEERS. United Prens AHSOciation— By Kleotric Telegraph— Copyright. Bectnved March ;9, 12.50 a.m. i . LONDON, March 28. Sir Thomas Sutherland, Chairman of the P. and O. Company, has convened a conference of shipowners, members of the House of Commons and Admiralty officials to consider meaiiß to protect the mercantile marine in the event of the outbreak of war. The Times says that the opinion is expressed that many coaling stations are defenceless, but it is believed that the Government contemplates making provision in the matter at an early date. All cargo shipped to the East is paying war rates. Received March 29, 10.15 a.m. The Stock Exchani>en generally are depressed in consequence oi the serious international outlook, and Consols have fallen 3-lGths. Acting under medical advice, Lord Salisbury has started for Beaulieu, his seat in the south of France. Mr Curzon now attends the meetings of the Cabinet. Twenty million cartridges have been issued to the British volunteer forces. The 'limes, commenting on Lord Salisbury's departure, says that he ought to surrender the portfolio of Foreign Affairs. The paper favours the appointment of Mr A. J. Balfour as his successor. PARIS, March 29. The French in Siam have purchased the Si am. Free Press, a daily newspaper published at Bangkok. The journal now vehemently attacks the King of Siam and the British. Received March 29, 9.50 a.m. SYDNEY, March 29. In view of the unsettled condition of affairs in the East, the Admiralty authorii ties are largely increasing the stores of I coal at the Thursday Island Naval Depfit. It is officially stated that the local I squadron is being kept ready for sea, and | could be despatched within an hour if necessary. -