CONDENSED CABLEGRAMS.

Manawatu Herald, 9 April 1898, Page 2

CONDENSED CABLEGRAMS.

London.

SPEECH BY MR BALFOUR.

la the House of Commons, the Hon. A. J. Balfour said there was a difficulty in the way of submitting papers on the Chinese question, as negotiations were still proceeding, thus limiting explanations by the Government on the subject. The state of extraordinary and unaccountable paralysis which existed in China's provoked attacks. The Go vernment had adhered to the policy enunciated on January 11th, and had aUvady obtained great commercial concessions. Germany's in terests were absolutely identical with the British, and he did not believe either Russia or Germany would interfere with the treaty rights. Russia's policy of railway extension and open ports would prove highly beneficinl to commerce. Mr Balfour said if Russia is satisfied with an ice free port tha balanco of power remains undisturbed. Believing that the occupation of Port Arthur will be a constant menace to Pekin, Lord Salisbury offered, if Russia abstained from occupation, that Great Britain would not occupy a port in the Gulf of Pe,chili, but Russia refused. Wei haiwei was leased on the same conditions as Port Arthur, and though of less natural strength, Weihaiwei would accommodate larger ships and a larger force. The Gulf of Fechili wag thug prevented from falling into Russia's undisputed control. He hoped China would be opened to universal trade, while still maintaining her suzerainty. If not the Powers commercially interested would constitute an alliance^tO prevent her falling a prey to any exclusive interest.

The speech was received with load cheers.