THE FAR EAST.

Taranaki Daily News, Volume XLV, Issue 250, 14 December 1903, Page 3

THE FAR EAST.

*». FORCING THE JAPANESE MINISTRY'S HAND. TOKIO, Dec. 11. The Mikado, in opening the Diet, simply announced that the Ministry was prudently and circumspectly negotiating for peace, and the. protection of Japan's rights and interests. The Japanese House of Representatives adoptefr-wfthoHt division a reply to the Speech from the Throne imputing to the Ministry a temporising policy at Home, and neglect of opportunities abroad. This is intwf>reted as doubly significant, because the reply to the speech hitherto has merely been a formal expression of thanks to the Mikado for his condescension in personally opening the Diet. Tlie reply to the Speech from the Throne added that it regarded the situation witJh profound solicitude, and prayed the Mikado to exercise his enlightened judgment thereon. LONDON, Dec. 11. The Times Tokio correspondent says this impeachment caused a profound impression, and it is expected the House will be immediately dissolved. JAPANESE DIET DISSOLVED Received 13, 9.30 a.m. TOKIO, Dec. 12. The Japanese Diet has been dissolved. RUSSIAN PRESS CALM. ST. PETERSBURG, Dec. 12. The Russian press maintains a pa)|ifio tone,/ LEGALISING RUSSIA'S POSITION IN MANCHURIA. LONDON, Dec. 12. The Times' Pekin correspondent confirms the reported Russo Chinese pourpalers with regard to Manchuria. He adds that France is advising China to come to a speedy agreement to legalise the Russian position in Manchuria. A RUSSIAN REPLY. CONTENTS UNDIVULGED. Received 14, 0.36 a.m. TOKJO, Dec. 13. A" Russian " Note, replying to one sent by the Japanese Government, has been received at Tokio, but flhe contents have not been disclosed. The Government maintains a calm and confident attitude.