FOREIGN PEACEMAKERS FAIL

Evening Post, Volume CXIII, Issue 28, 3 February 1932, Page 7

FOREIGN PEACEMAKERS FAIL

JAPANESE AGAIN ADVANCING

FIGHTING ON BIG SCALE EXPECTED

CHINESE RESOLVED TO STAND FAST

(United Frew Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright.) . (Received 3rd February, 9.30 a.m.) SHANGHAI, 2nd February. The negotiations between the Japanese and Chinese at Shanghai under foreign intervention definitely failed to-day, when an announcement was made, by the local Japanese officials to the Mayor of Shanghai, Mr. Wu,. that Japan "cannot accept the suggestion for a retirement to the previous positions." The truce is now regarded as definitely ended, and large scale fighting is expected to be resumed at any moment. Following a reconnaissance hy two seaplanes in the lunch hour the Japanese took up advance posts at approximately 2.30 p.m., commencing a general advance into Chapei at 3 p.m. The attack is proceeding. Another message states that four concealed Japanese field guns are heavily shelling Chapei and two thousand Japanese marines are preparing to attack the Chinese, who firmly intend td drive the Japanese from Shanghai. Fourteen thousand Chinese troops are concentrated westward of Chapei. The Japanese naval headquarters have issued a communique denying that the movement this afternoon constituted an endeavour to advance into Chapei, alleging that they had merely taken the positions allotted by the Allied commanders entrusted with the defence of the Settlements. Observers returning fronTChapei state that the district is thoroughly wired and fully manned by the Chinese 19th Army, which is prepared to offer a stubborn resistance.