JAPAN IN MANCHURIA

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 75, Issue 13, 16 January 1932, Page 5

JAPAN IN MANCHURIA

PROTECTION OF INTERESTS COURSE or ACTION DEFENDED. CHINESE LACK OF CONTROL. AUCKLAND, Jan. 12. The case for Japan’s action in Manchuria was referred to by Mr. M. Fujii, of Tokio, a representative of a wool-trading firm, who arrived from Sydney by the Aorangi yesterday. Mr. Fujii said Japan actually was averse to war, in spite of all that had been said, and the conflict which had taken place in the territory was not warfare in the true sense. “Japan’s attitude has been for the protection of her interests in Manchuria and the many Japanese who live there,” said Mr. Fujii. “The whole thing is very simple. We are only carrying out first-aid ir. Manchuria.” Mr. Fujii explained that it was Imperative that Japan should take a decisive stand against circumstances which were detrimental to her own interests and her subjects, who were a responsible population in Manchuria. Japan was willing to allo./ an amicable settlement and was concerned only with safeguarding her peaceful pursuits in Manchuria. The whole trouble had resulted from the Chinese Government’s lack of control in Manchuria, added Mr. Fujii. Without control by the Government, the Japanese were forced to look after themselves. If China were impotent, ■why should Japan fail to protect what wjje essentiallv her interests? “The Chinese bandits and regular soldiers are all mixed up,” he said, “and we are satisfied that we are doing the right thing.” Questioned about the national feeling in Japan concerning the Manchurian dispute, Mr. Fujii said there was no particular emotion, but all Japanese were satisfied that they were in the right by protecting themselves. There had been no ardent demonstrations. Now that the League of Nations was investigating the conflict between China and Japan, the Japanese were by no means opposed to a peaceful settlement of the Manchurian dispute. Mr. Fujii considered that the League would find Japan’s actions justified and the dispute would be settled. Japan, however, was thoroughly determined to ensure protection for her activities in Manchuria. Dealing with home affairs in Japan, Mr. Fujii said the country had been affected by trade depression just as every other nation had been. There was unemployment and he thought that about Ift per cent, of the workers was idle. This was a serious position but the Government was grappling with the problem resolutely. Works were carried out by municipaliti r as a means of assistance. In one respect, Japan differed from other countries. There were no arbitration awards, and wages fluctuated according to supply and demand.

Mr. Fujii remarked that he had been pleased to note a renewal of confidence in Australia while he was there on business. It was evident that considerable faith was held in the newlyelected Federal Ministry and, as a visitor, he was glad to see a new spirit In the peop’e. Mr. Fujii expects to remain in New Zealand for 11 days, and he will attend wool sales in Auckland and Wanganui. He remarked that Japan’s interest in the Australian and New Zealand wool market was considerable, and there were several points about commercial relations which were promising for the future.