CABLE NEWS

Gisborne Times, Volume XXVI, Issue 2170, 21 April 1908, Page 2

CABLE NEWS

ITALY AND TURKEY. THE FOREIGN POST OFFICE QUESTION. AN ATTEMPT AT SUPPRESSION. United Press Association—Copyright. (Received April 20, 9.50 p.m.) ROME, April 20. Italy’s claim is based on tho mostfavored nation clauso in her treaties with Turkey. Tho Porte replied that post offices belonging to other Powers were tolerated, but were not officially sanctioned ; hence Italy was unable to in- .. voice the aid of the clause. Officials informed the Italian Ambassador that it war, the Porte’s intention, if post offices were opened, to station guards outside to prevent the public from entering. This brought matters to a head, and Italy resolved to demand the adjustment of other grievances, notably tho vexatious obstructions placed in the way of Italians and Arab customers at Tripoli, Turkey’s refusal to allow Italians to acquire property in Turkey, and tho restrictions on coasting trade. All the Powers, including Germany, recognise Italy’s action as correct and proper. A squadron was got ready in twelve hours, and goes to Asia Minor. It consists of eight first-class battleships, one second-class battleship, three torpedo cruisers, 329 offioers, 6L78 men, and 459 guns. PORTE’S CONTENTION UNTENABLE. United Press Association —Copyright. (Received April 20, 9.50 p.m.) LONDON, April 20. Tho “Times ” Rome correspondent says tho Porte’s contention is untenable. Turkey’s attempt in 1908 to suppress foreign post offices on the ground that the Turkish postal service was sufficient, was foiled by the energetic action of the Powers. Foreign post offices since then have increased.

A RUSSIAN OPINION;

United Press Association—Copvright. (Received April 20, 9.50 p.m.) ST. PETERSBURG, April 20. The St. Petersburg newspaper “Novoe Vreniya” declares that Turkey’s defence against Italy is the immediate consequence of Germany and Austria weakening over the Macedonian concert. ' ;