CHINESE QUESTION.

Waikato Argus, Volume IV, Issue 268, 31 March 1898, Page 3

CHINESE QUESTION.

London, March 29. Tu E Standard's Berlin correspondent etat cs that it is expected that England will occupy Chusan until a definilo understanding has been arrived nt with China. Mr Balfour has promised the Houso of Commons to make a statement on the Eastern policy of the Government on Tuesday next. Russian plans for the immediate equipment of Port Arthur are ready. H.M.S. Barfleur, which recently joined the China squadron, is proceeding to Nagasaki iu Japan. Twenty million cartridges Lave boen issued to the British volunteer forces. The Stock Exchange generally is depressed, in consequence of the serious international outlook. Consols have fallen 3-16ths. The Russian flag has been hoisted at Port Arthur and Ta-lien-wan, and the Chinese forces have withdrawn from these positions. M. Hanotnux states that the chief demands made from China on behalf of France are with a view to ensuring thd security of Indo-Chinese territory. The first result of the demands, M." Hanotaux adds, gives a good augury of success. The Russian volunteer fleet, which lately left the Baltic for Vladivostok, is returning to Russia. Sydney, March ?9. In view of the unsettled condition of affairs in the East, the Admiralty authorities are largely increasing the stores of coal at the Thursday Island naval depot. It is officially stated that the Australian squadron is kept ready for sea, and could be despatched within an hour if necessary.