RIGHTS IN CHINA

Marlborough Express, Volume LXXVI, Issue 240, 12 October 1942, Page 5

RIGHTS IN CHINA

TREATY OF RELINQUISHMENT ANGLO- AMERICAN OFFER. NEW ERA IN RELATIONSHIPS.

P.A. Cable.

WASHINGTON, Oct. 10.

The Assistant Secretary oi State, Mr Sumner Welles, informed the Chinese Ambassador that the United States was prepared promptly to negotiate a treaty providing for the immediate relinquishment of United States extxaterritorial rights in China. He added that the British Government shared America's views and was taking similar action.

An announcement that Canada was also prepared to relinquish extraterritorial rights in China was made by Mr Mackenzie King in Ottawa. He said this would not adversely affect Canadian land ownership in China, or facilities for travel, residence and trade. The Chinese Ambassador to the United States said the relinquishment of extraterritorial rights would mark the beginning of a new era in China's relations with the Western Powers, and seal the end of an outdated and out-worn system. The Washington correspondent of the New York Times points out that though the question had been actively considered for several months, the announcement was timed for China's national anniversary as encouragement in her fight against the Axis. The news that Britain and America are relinquishing their extraterritorial rights in China has caused very great jubilation, says the New York Times Chungking correspondent. Their action will not only remove a humiliating relic of foreign imperialism, but also will serve as tremendous encouragement for the Chinese to fight harder than ever now that China stands on an equal footing with the other United Nations.