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BRITAIN COMPLAINS OF INCIDENTS

Definite Steps To Prevent

HONG KONG DAILY PRESS, FRIDAY, DECEMBER 17, 1937.

SHANGHAI PRESS STATEMENT

Recurrence Asked Of Japan Evening Post" Will

GRAVE ISSUES STRESSED

London, December 15

The British Note to Japan, which at the outset states that at- tacks made by Japanese aircraft and, land forces on British war. ships and merchant shipping on December 12 clearly raise grave Issues, proceeds:

"At Wuhu, a British tug, which had conveyed from Nanking His Majesty's Consul, the British Military Attache and the Flag Captain to the British Rear-Admiral on the Yangtse, was attacked by Japanese machine-gun Bre after transferring these officers to H.M.S. Ladybird. The latter proceeded to join the tug in order to protect her when she observed a Japanese field gun battery Bring on merchant ships concentrated above the Asiatic Petroleum Company's Installation.

Firing continued and was direct- from Nanking to Shanghal, the ed at H.M.S. Ladybird herself. subsequent attack on motor cars There were four direct hits on this conveying British offelals on a vessel. One naval rating was kill-shinlar journey, attacks on British ed, another was seriously wounded civilians and military posts in the and there were several minor defence perimeter at Shanghai as casualties, including the Flag Cap well as other incidents, and the re- tain. A direct hit was also seen peated assurances of the Japanese to be sustained by the British mer-Government of their intention fully chant ship. Sulwo, H.MS. Bee to respect the interests of third then arrived on the scene and was Powers in the present conflict with also fired on by the shore battery. | China,

The Commander of the Bee land- It is clear that the steps taken ed to protest, and was informed by by the Japanese Government to Colonel Hashimoto, senior Japan-prevent such attacks have so far ese military officer, then at Wuhu, failed in that purpose, and Els Ma- that firing on the warships was Jesty's Government must now ask due to a mistake but that he had to be informed that measures have orders to fire on every ship on the actually been taken of a character river. At a later interview the which will put a definite stop to

incidents of which they complain.

same officer stated categorically that if any ships moved on the river they would be fred on, and despite protests H.M.S. Bee and H.MS, Ladybird, after berthing. remained covered by guns at point blank range.

Near Hslasarshan, above Nan- king, where British merchant ships were concentrated in a part of the river previously designated by the Japanese Commander-in-Chief 'as a safety zone, three separate bomb- Ing attacks were made by Japanese aircraft on them and on H.MS. scarah, which were with them

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British Wireless

CABINET MEETS

London, Dec. 15: The Cabinet was in session for

two hours this morning when, it is understood, the terms of the Note to Japan on the subject of re- cent attacks on British shipping were considered.

In Commons this afternon, the Foreign Secretary. Mr. Anthony Eden made a statement. He recall- ed that immediately on the occur- rence of attacks on British ship- ping on the Yangtse, His Majesty's Ambassador in Tokyo made the strongest representations tne Japanese Government.

to

perial Japanese Government' deep- ly regret the, occurrence of inci- dents in which His Majesty's Ships, Ladybird, Bee, Cricket and Scarab. were accidentally bombed on Dec. 12 in the neighbourhood of Wunu and Nanking, and I hereby offer a profound apology in their name,

PUNISHMENT REQUESTED His Majesty's Government have now been glad to receive the Note

The Japanese Government yes- of December 14 offering the pro- terday addressed a note to the Am- found apology of the Imperialbassador as

follows: "The Im- Japanese Government for the at- tacks on His Majesty's Ships, stat- ing that measures were immediate- ly being taken to prevent re- currence of auch incidents and adding that they will deal suitably with those responsible and pay the necessary compensation.

His Majesty's, Governmens ob- serve that the Note makes no mention of attacks on British mer- chant vessels, and I am instructed to request that assurance may be given that all that is said in that Note applies equally to these at- tacka.

"I have, the honour to inform Your Excellency that the Imperial Government immediately took the necessary measures to prevent a recurrence of incidents of this nature, and to add that they will deal suitably with those responsible for the incidents immediately on completion of their investigations. and are also prepared to pay necessary compensation for damage to your country.

His Majesty's Government take particular note of the statement that those responsible will be suit-the ably dealt with. Adequate punish- ment of those responsible for the particular attacks under discussion

BRITAIN'S ATTITUDE "The Imperial Government earn-

seems indeed to His Majesty's Goy-estly hope that occurrence of these ernment to be the only method by unfortunate incidents will not im- which further outrages can he prevented

NO EFFECTIVE CHECK His Majesty's Government cannot but recall previous incidents in which the Japanese Government have expressed regret for attacks made on British nationals and property and have given assurances that adequate steps had been taken to prevent any "repetition. They call to mind the attack made on His Majesty's Ambassador in China while he was travelling by road

pair the traditional friendship ex- isting between our two countries." Mr. Eden added that His Ma- Jesty's Government had to-day sent

3. communication to the Japanese. «Government acknow- ledging receipt of this Note defining their attitude towards the whole series of incidents and emphasising the seriousness of the situation which has thus been created and the requirements which in their judgment follow from them.- British Wirelexa.

JAPANESE TO ATTACK |... HSIACHUEN ISLAND

HANGCHOW

Hangchow, Dec. 16: The Japan- ese are reported to be making pre- parations for an attack on Hang- chow from three directions, the Kashing-Hangchow Railway, the Nanking-Hangchow Highway and the canal running" through Shih- тепкал.

STRAFED

Tientin, Dec. 16. Japanese warplanes bombed and strafed. Eslachuen Island off Tol- shan on Tuesday in order to cover the landing of bluejackets, who met the resistance of the protec- tive guards, it was reported here to-day.. Japanese military transport has

The invasion was said to be re- the nearby island, been very much congested along Pulsed. On these three roubes during the last Shangchuen, the Japanese have few days.

not yet completed their occcrpa- The railway track at Chow-tion of the entire island. wangmiao,

Not Submit To Censorship

Cor-

Shanghai, Dec. 16: Mr. nellus van der Starr has publish- ed a statement saying that he is controlling and is the responsible owner of the "Shanghal Evening Post and Mercury" and its Chinese amlated newspaper "Tamel Wan Pao."

GERMANY'S POLICY IN

THE FAR EAST

Would Be In Support Of

Britain-Prof. Chang

WELCOMES PUPPET GOVERNMENT

FOR WHOLE OF CHINA

London, Dec. 16. Professor Chang Peng-chun, of Nankai University, returned to London to-day after widely travelling on the Continent since the Brussels Conference.

Interviewed by Reuter, Professor Chang said that he spent some time in Moscow and was of the opinion that the elections were like- Mr. van der Starr says that en-ly to have a profound effect on Russia and the Russian people quiries had accumulated from both

who in no wise regarded them in the same light as abroad. On the private and official sources as to

contrary, he considered the elections as an opportunity to demons- who owns these newspapers and

trate the unity of the Russian people which, in his opinion would this statement was made because tend to neutralise the recent parges and, not improbably. put an "unanswered questions

such end to them. times as these are unwholesome both for the community and for the newspapers concerned."

at

Mr. van der Starr states that the "Tamel Wan Pao" is the Chinese edition of the "Post and Mercury." Their substance was similar and in most of the particulars the same!

"They collaborate with the Gov- ernment authorities when they can and do so with a clear conscience. They appreciate and strive for pro- it by constructive criticism and

from all suggestions

quarters. They submit to censorship from nobody:"

The rank and fire of the Red Army were absolutely sound and Kremlin was watching the Far British attitude with which un East very closely., particularly the doubtedly the Soviet would be ready to co-operate in any action.

to

Discussing his stay in Berlin, Professor Chang emphasized that the Government still refuses recognise Manchukuo despite pres- sure by the Nazi extremists. Financial and business men were undoubtedly anxious about Ger-

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the Far East would be in support of Great Britain whichever wuy she went.

Professor Chang welcomed the creation of a puppet government in Pelping for the whole of Chinn” since the use of this title indicated

recognise the unity of the Chinese that Japan would be obliged to

people' while thereby she discloses to the world her ambitions to con- trol not only the north but all of China,

Professor Chang Peng-chun will. man interests in China.

remain in London for two or three Contrary to the general impres-weeks and will then probably go 2sion. "Professor Chang was com- to the United States-

vinced that Germany's policy in Reuter

The statement was given double column in the "Shanghai Evening Post and Mercury" to-day. -Reuter

NODAY OFF" FOR

SHANGHAI NEWSPAPERMEN

During Xmas And New

Year's Holidays

Shanghal, Dec. 18: The English language" newspapers in Shanghai will appear as usual during the Christmas and New Year holidays without a single "day off."

It has been decided to publish owing to the "prevailing condi- tions" which have entailed a con- siderable loss in revenue.--- Kenter.

FLANDIN'S VISIT ΤΟ BERLIN

Denies Was Entrasted With Mission

Paris, Dec. 18: The ex-Premier of France, M. Flandin, has returned to Paris after a visit to Berlin where he met a number of Nazl leaders.

M. Flandin

M. Flandin said that France and Germany should make reciprocal concessions for peace but added that he saw big differences in the point of view of the two countries over international affairs.

en-

M. Flandin is seeing the French Premier, M. Camille Chautemps, but he denied that he was trusted with a mission during his visit to Berlin which was unofficial and of a private nature.- Henter's Bulletin Service

NEW INCIDENT

QUESTION OF TIME ONLY

U.S. Press Advises Japanese To Look Before Shooting

New York, Dec. 18. Commenting on the bombing of the USS. Panay, the New York World states:"

"We hope Tokyo wih trid a way to impress upon her mad militarists

the wisdom of looking before they shoot. There is proof that that is not done.

TOTALITARIAN STATE URGED

Disbandment Of Japanese Political Parties

Tokyo, Dec. 16. Political circles are flurried by the manifesto which MISUTU Toyama. Prince Sanetaka Ichijo and Admiral Usuke Yamamoto have jointly issued to the nation, urging the vital necessity for the immediate organisation of a National Party by disbanding the existing political parties.

Mitsuru Toyama is a patron of the Black Dragon Society, and the "It is just a question of time be-mystery man" in political circles

före a new incident occurs. Emo- tions may then be aroused to such a pitch that we may suddenly find ourselves, Japanese and Americans alike. up to our necks in trouble which none of us wants."

The New York Post urges invoca- tion of the Neutrality Act, declar- ing: "We don't want to work with Britain handling the Far Easter crisis. There is only danger in such an alliance. We want to keep out of war."

The New York Times asserts thê cumulative effect of such incidents as that involving the Panay is dan- gerous in the extreme. If for no other reason than the real interests of Japan the paper advises peace with China on honourable terms.

Leuter.

DEMILITARISATION OF ALEXANDRETTA AND ANTIOCH

Istanbul, Dec. 10: The Turkish General Staff is conferring with the French Military Mission in Istanbul regarding the demilitarisa tion of Alexandretta and Antioch, The Turkish press reports that Turks were badly treated by the Byrians at the Instigation of highly placed French oficials there. This had given a lend to the Turkish denunciation of a treaty friendship between Turkey and Býria signed eleven years ago.-- Renter'a Bulletin Service.

DYE AGREEMENT

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who has been active behind impor- tant development during the past half century.

Incidentally a movement is afoot members of both the two

among

Minselto and Selyukal, the major political parties, for liquidat- ing their parties in favour of a Totalitarian State.-Reuter

SPEEDY

NOOTH

CANTON

RAILWAY

ECONOMICA L

Special Notice to Golfers

The "Belle" railcars will run between Kowloon and Shum Chun as follows'

"Kowloon dep. 1.08 p.m.

Saturdays only.”

Fanling arr. 1.38 p.m. Sheung Shui, arr. 1.39 p.in.

Sundays and

Shum Chun arr. 1.46 p.m. Holidays only

Kowloon dep. 8.15 a.m.

Sheung Shuf arr. 8.66 8.11. Kowloon dep. 8.10.10.

Sheung Shui arr. 9.88 LM.

Tuesdays, Sundays

Shum Chun dep. 4.11 p.m.

Sham Chan arr. 9 01 a m..

FREE CHER arr. 9.86 a.m.

& Holidays only ・・

Sheung Shui dep. 4.10 p.m. A Kowloog, arr. LU pm

R. D. WALKER,

Manager & Chief Engineer.

THE

HONG KONG

PENINSULA HOTEL;

KONGKONG HOTEL; REFUISE BAŤ HOTELS

&

SHANGHAI

ÄRTOR HOUSE; PALACE HOTEL}

HOTELS

LIMITED.

In association with the Grand Hotel des Wagons Lita, Paking.

7,000 CHINESE SOLDIERS

TAKEN PRISONERS

GERMAN MEDIATION AGAIN MOOTED

Shaghai, Dec. 16.

Tokyo. Dec. 16: General Head-

An unconfrmed, report stated Chinese soldiers have surrendered

that 15,000 that Germany will make another quarters announces

effort to mediate now that Nan- in western Sbantung and south king has fallen to the Japanese. western Hopel within the past Dr. Herbert von Dirksen, German fortnight. The announcement Ambassador to Tokyo, had an in- states that 8,000 man laid down | terview with Mr. Koki Hirota, their arms near Lintsing, Bhan-Japanese Foreign Minister, by call- tung, while the remainder were ing him away from a Cabinet taken prisoners at Lungping about | meetnig. 40 miles north-east of Shantung. Though the conversations were The communique adds that im- ] not divulged, it was surmised that portant gains have been made by the German Ambassador offered the Japanese in western Shantung Berlin's sastance in effecting. a during the past three weeks.--- Sino-Japanese :armistice. Foreign Reuter.

eircles here have no information of such a move,———- International News Agency,

YANGCHOW KEPORTED CAPTURED Hauchow, Dec. 18: A telephone message, which has not been offi- | JAPANESE FAIL TO FORM cially confirmed, from Huaiyin PUPPET ORGAN AT TAIYUAN | states that the Japanese captured Linfen, Dec. 16: An attempt by Yangchow, a town a few miles the Japanese to establish R. 80- northwest of Chinkfang across the called peace maintenance com- Tangtze River, on Dec. 15, follow- mission at Taiyuan has ended in failure as no Chinese are willing ing a flerce encounter with the Chinese garrison.

to serve their purpose.

The invaders crossed the river at Iching where they met with stiff resistance from the Chinese, en- trenched in that area. However, the "Japanese succeeded to break through the lines with their me- chanised units and stormed Yang- chow-rest. Forex

There are now more than 3,000 Japanese troops inside Taiyuan city. As a precautionary measure, all city gates except two alde ones have been closed.

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4

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RAILWAY STATIONS

BOMBED

Hangchow, Dec. 16: Shashaing station on the Shanghai-Hang- station on the Cheklang-Klangsi chow-Ningpo Raliway and Chuki Railway were subjected to further bombings by Japanese planes yes terday.

Three

bombers

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released

11

At 9.51 a.m. two heavy bombers coming from the direction Haining dropped four, bomba "at Chuki station, doing slight damage.

JAPANESE PUSHING TOWARD SHIHMENWAN, TSUNGTEH Hangchow, Dec. 16: Over 1,000 Japanese troops aboard a large At 130 p.m. two other bombers number of motor boats are pushing staged a second raid on Chinki from Kashing to Shihmenwan and station, dropping 11 Tsungtch northwest of Hangchow Damage was done to the platform bombs by the canal, an urgent report re- and the track ceived here states.

Central New Chinese reinforcements are be-i ing rushed to these two points to check their advance, the report asserta

The Japanese troops at Chiao- cheng southwest of Taiyuan are bombs at Shaohsing station at making preparations for an attack 9.56 am, killing three persons, CHINESE FORM NEW LINE on Wenshul and Fenyang, two wounding alx, and destroying a

locomotive, Hauchow, Dec. 16: Withdrawing towns further southwest, and have

passenger couch, out of the range of the big guns strengthened their defence works part of the station building and mounted on the Japanese warships around the city, a report reaching sections of rails. now anchored in the Yangtze here to-day statės.---- River, the Chinese forces have es- | Central News. tablished a new line running from Chuanchlao, northwest of Pukow In Anhwel province, through Wuyi and then to Lluho in Kiangsu pro- vince.

The morale of the troops is ex The Franco-German agreement cellent, it is reported, and renewed dividing the interests of manufac-effort will be made to check the turers of chemical dyes from tar Japanese advance. It is learned has now been in force for ten years. that only small batches of Japan According to this dye agreement, ese soldiers have crossed to the which with the tron and nitrate north side of the Yangtze- agreements, forms the back-bone Central News. of Franco-German trade relations,

'HUAIYIN SUBURBS

Tainan, Dec. 16: The Trinam production and sales are divided in

BOMBED

ed the Chinese mobile units in the populace was -- air-scured. ngatu the ratio which was the result of

Huaiyin, Dec. 16 Huaiyin was destruction of railway bridges and yesterday morning when two fairly recent experience in the in-raided by four Japanese planes rails, the Japanese have arrested Japanese planes appeared over dustry. By means of this pact it yesterday. Two high explosives and killed a number of farmers at the city and released two- bomba was possible to satisfy both parties were dropped in the southern Stehklao on the Kashing-Hang- at the isotal Ballysy station. without straining the market. suburbs, and nine in the northern chow Line and burnt down their No damage was done as both

At first neither industry found it suburbs. The damage was insigni- houses,entral Feias easy to make concessions, but dur-

ficant enten) Mem

CHEN KUNG-PO TO SEE of Hangchow Bay, sallled forth United States each won one singles Ing the last ten years both have against the enemy position at match

CHINESE COUNTER-ATTACK -

ME. EDEN N come to realise that co-operation.

-ON-WUHU ANG

London, Dec. 16: The Chinese Shichklao in the west and succeed- John Bromwich (Australia) de- pays, and the success of this agree- Hsuchow, Dec. 18: A counter-Minister, Mr. Chen Kung-po, ar- ed in recovering the station on feated Gene Mako in three sets, ment between French and Ger-offensive on Wuhu which was rived to-day from the Continent. the Shanghai-Hangchow Rallway. 6-3, 6-2, 6-1, whilst Donald Budge,

man chemical industrial interests taken by the Japanese together At present there are no state Japanese troops, were reported to the Wimbledon and American should promise well for the future with Tangtu on December 11 is be-, ments for the. Press.

National champion, defeated of trade relations between the two ing launched by a detachment of will see Mr. Anthony Eden, Foreign Adrian Quist 4-8, 7-5, 6-1, 6-0.-—— states.

Chinese reinforcements.

Becretary, shortly—– Reuter's Bulletin Service.

Transocean:

Central Fe

55 kilometres from About ten Japanese warships are Hangchow which had been repair- cruising in these waters.- ed by the Japanese was again International News Agency. damaged by Chinese mobile ·units yesterday.

Central News.

the

massed on Cheklang borders.

Anhui-Honan-

Chinese troops at Halyen, north

SAFEGUARDING OF HANGCHOW

Hangchow, Dec. 16. General Liu Halang is ordered to 10ve the main strength of his forces to Hangchow to safeguard this city in view of the Japanese have fled and left behind large .advance from Kashan. Other amount of arms—

seasoned Szechuenese troops are | Internasional News Agency.

BUDGE LOSES SET TO QUIST

Unofficial Tennis Test Match In Sydney

Sydney, Dec. 18: In an unofficial Lawn Tennis Test match played at Sydney to-day. Australia and the

ཐ.

Suspecting that they have help-

Reufor

TEINAN AND TROUBRIEN

cint ATTACKED

bombs landed on the open neid.

Tsounken on the Tientsin Pukow Railway about 176 kilo- metres souths" of Tsinan; which is the birthplace of the Chinese kage Mendus was also raided. Four bombe were unloaded by four.

Mr. Chen Japancae bombingplanes at the

railway station, demolishing part of the railway godown. Tentent News

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