The Gisborne Standard AND COOK COUNTY GAZETTE Published every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday Morning. Thursday, October 27, 1887. ENGLAND AND FRANCE.

Gisborne Standard and Cook County Gazette, Volume I, Issue 59, 27 October 1887, Page 2

The Gisborne Standard AND COOK COUNTY GAZETTE Published every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday Morning.

Thursday, October 27, 1887. ENGLAND AND FRANCE.

Be just anfl fear not; I*t al! the ends thnu nim'at at be thy country’s, Thy God’s, and truth’s.

After much diplomacy, on the part of France in particular, we are now informed that the neutralisation of the Suez Canal has been agreed to by the English Government.

It is important that the question of neutralisation or otherwise should te settled while the peace of Europe is still maintained, and for that reason it is satisfactory that the present arrangement has been arrived at in the prevailing state of affairs. Whether that settlement is to the best interests of Great Britain is altogether another question. England has already shown much weakness in regard to Egyptian affairs, though that must not necessarily be coupled with the present question, excepting that in case of war we cannot overlook the possible utilisation of the present railway communication across Egypt, together with a route through Syria and the Euphrates Valley. England got control of the Canal by a commercial speculation, and it is questionable whether she is justified in giving way to the other Powers.

However, the neutralisation of the Canal may matter I'ttle either way. It might to a certain extent re-assure France, who is naturally jealous to see the Canal under British control in peace or war.

The passage of troops would be secured, and that is really the most important point. It is plain that no amo in' f supervision cou'd prevent the deep-water channel from being blocke I at critical moments, and yet it would I. hard to get sufficient proof to punish the offender. There would perhaps not be great difficulty in closing the traffic by scuttling vessels in the channel, or “ acciden'ally ” stranding a large steamer in the waterway.

The getting dear of France in the New Hebrides will be a great relief to a certain class of Australian politicians. But while it is gratifying to have this troublesome question settled, it is not with unmixed feelings of satisfaction that Englishmen will regard the matter. If France must be paid a price to fu'fil previously-acknowledged obligations, it leaves an open question as to whether there is any faith to be placed in the promises of nations.

There was a good deal too much fuss and blether about the subject at the time, and many were disgusted at the idea of an Australian Parliament urging the British Government on to war with France over a piece of territory like this. But the principle involved is a serious one. It is simply a case of suiting ourselves to the circumstances, though we may be sure that the other nations will take advantage of every weakness on the part of England. ■■ • ■ ■

These latest concessions by England will give another cue to those who declare that the Empire is declining, and this weakness is to be deplored.