WAR RUMOURS.

Manawatu Herald, 31 March 1898, Page 2

WAR RUMOURS.

Sir Thomas Sutheiland, chairman of the P. Amd 0. Company, ha 3 conveued a conference of shipowners, members of the House of Commons

and Admiralty officials to consider means of protecting the raercantite marine in the event of an outbreak of war. The Times says, the opinion is expressed that many of the coaling stations are defenceless, but it is believed the Government contemplates making provision in the matter at an early date. All cargo shipped to the East is paying war rates. The Stock Exchanges generally are depressed in consequence of the serious international outlook. Consols have fallen three-sixteenths. The Right Hon. A. J. Balfour has promised the Hou3e of Commons to make a statement of the Govern ment's Eastern policy on Tuesday next. The Standard's Berlin correspondentstates that it is expected England will occupy Chusan uutil a definite understanding has been arrived at with China. Under medical advice Lord Salisbury has started for Beaulieu, his seat in the South of France. The Times, commenting on Lord Salisbury's departure for the Continent, saya he ought to surrender tbe portfolio of Foreign Affairs. The piper favours the appointment; of Mr A.. J. Balfour as his successor. The Hon. G. N. Curzon, Parliamentary Secretary to the Foreign Office, who has not hitherto been in the Cabinet, now attends the meetings of Cabinet.