“APOLOGY MISSION” TO CHINA

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 89, Issue 227, 25 September 1945, Page 5

“APOLOGY MISSION” TO CHINA

SUGGESTED FOR JAPAN VICE-PREMIER’S SENSE OF SHAME Recd. 8 p.m. New York, Sept. 24. The Herald-Tribune’s Tokio correspondent says Prince Konoye (VicePremier of Japan) suggested that Japan send an “apology mission” to Generalissimo Chiang Kai-shek. It is rumoured that if the mission is successful permission may be sought to send similar groups to Washington and London.

Just what the purpose of such missions would serve, beyond enabling the Jananese to recover some of their lost face, is not apparent. However, the Japanese may be attempting to stave off excessive reparations for the destruction wrought on China’s cities and economy. Prince Konoye claimed that he had tried three times to arrange peace with China, quoting Chiang’s broadcast on August 15, in which he stated: “China bears no animosity to Japan.” Prince Konoye said Janan would like to as'- China to forget hei animosity since *he “Manchurian incident.* ’and wants to establish intimate co-operat : on for the sake of . worid peace. Prince Konoye claimed that he ni tempted to straighten out the difference with the Chinese ambassador from 1932 to 7925. but the “Manch” r: an incident” developed and the military kept the Jananese Cab’net in the dark. “I am Piled w'th a sense of regret and renpntanre toward China.” he said. “T hold myself to the people of China and Janan for a torn of ”ents so contrary to my convictions.”