JAPAN'S PAST.

Hokitika Guardian, 4 March 1918, Page 2

JAPAN'S PAST.

READINESS to begin. [PER PRESS ASSOCIATION.—COPYRIGHT.] LONDON March 1. j It is generally believed that Japan j intends energetic measures if peace is ' concluded at Brest Litovsk. She is determined to prevent Germany seizing the copper and platinum mines in the Ural mountains and also to save the vast munitions and stores at VUdivostock. It is understood that she has alrca ;y approached America. Japan is even willing to co-operate with the American troops if the Aljics count it advisable. The “Daily Chronicle’s” diplomatic correspondent states Japan’s active intervention in the war is stronglv favoured by France, particularly [■’ M. Clemenceau and M. Pichon. Public opinion in England is await ing the Government’s definite lead. It is well known that General Foch, in November foresaw the possibilities and the matter was discussed at tlie Allied War Council at Paris. It is no,v obvious .that. .Japan cannot remain -i spectator of events which are placing Russia under the complete subjection of Germany, imperilling Japan’s existence as an Empire. .JAPAN MOBILISING

LONDON March 1. • Tlie “Morning'Post’s” Shanghai correspondent, says: Tho Chinese Pi •ess states that Japan has decided to mobilise for operation in Siberia. China is co-operating and sending four divisions , TO AID RUSSIA. LONDON, March 2. 1 The “Daily Mail understands that 'British and Japanese Governments stress tho fact that Japan’s intervention in Russia is in no sense to he construed that they are hostile to Russia or the Russian Government. The purpose hpart from the protection of Allied interests, is to assist Russia to lighten and eventually to lift, the German burden. INTERVENTION IN EMBARGO. LONDON Mar£r 2. 1 It is reported in London that Japan hitherto only sounded the Allies re-, trarding intervention iand has not I made proposals . Japanese circles in London declare that Japan does not seek aggrandisement; hut recognises that Japan’s security in the Far East is endangered by tho new Prussian situation.

NO OBJECTION. , NEW YORK, March 1. The United Press correspondent at Washington learns that at its meeting, President Wilson and the Cabinet decided that the United States would raise no objection to Japan ' sending troops to Siberia in self defence but., the United States forces will not participate. CHINESE UNITY STIRRED. ' SHANGHAI, March 2. Tlie view that the Chinese decision to , co-operate with Japan safeguards the interests of j Siberia has renewed the efforts to effect a reconciliation between north and south, China.