THE CHINESE QUESTION

Waikato Argus, Volume V, Issue 369, 19 November 1898, Page 2

THE CHINESE QUESTION

SPEECH BY MR CHAMBERLAIN.

[united press association.]

(by electric telegraph—copyright). London, November 17. Mr Chamberlain, speaking at Manchester, said the open-door policy in China had been maintained hitherto, but the position was not without anxiety. Further agreement with Russia respecting China was desirable if such agreement were possible. It was well to remember that the trading interests of Great Britain, Japan, Germany and America harmonised. Great Britain did not need an alliance for her own security. She was able to stand alone aided by her own children and the sister nations she had helped to educate. He advocated Great Britain coming to an understanding with Germany and cordial co-operation with America. Shanghai, November 16. The Dowager Empress of China has refused Li Hung Chang's request not to be sent to Shantung. The Dowager has granted the Anglo-German Syndicate a contract for the construction of a railway from Tientsin to Chin Kiang.

November 17. The British fleet at Wei-hai-wei is dispersing. No steps have been taken to fortify Wei-hai-wei despite the feverish activity of the Russians to fortify Port Arthur.

Kang-Tu-Wei, the fugitive member of the Chinese Council, states that he has forwarded a memorial to the Foreign Ambassadors at Pelrin, asking them to assist the Emperor to destroy the power of the Dowager Empress. He points out that the self-appointed Regent is guilty of murders, usurpation, and regicide.

The Chinese authorities have transferred troops from the Province of Kangsu, the scene of the Black Flag Rebellion, to Chi Chou Fu, on the right bank of the Yang-tse-Kiang.