5 FEBRUARY 1927, Page 1

There is no doubt about these fads, as Mr. Chen

sent a formal protest to London againgt the despatch of the troops. Nevertheless he .,entered upon negotiations, The reason he gives now for changing his mind can hardly be the real reason. He has not suddenly discovered that British troops are being sent, as might be supposed by anybody who read his statement without reference to previous events. It looks as though Moscow had once again called Mr. Chen to heel. It is well known that the leaders of the British Labour Party, most of whom are now inclined to industrial peace, recognize that their new policy implies moderation in all respects, and for this reason they are not inclined to be captious about the Government's Chinese policy, especially as they know in their hearts that the policy is sane and generous. But the exercise of any influence by the moderate men of British Labour is always the signal for Moscow to see even redder than usual. This seems to be the real explanation of Mr. Chen's illogicality. Meanwhile a portion of the Labour Party has in effect encouraged him, and another portion sees that the only true way of peace is to support Sir Austen Chamberlain.