CONFERENCE OF LIBERAL UNIONISTS

Ashburton Guardian, Volume VII, Issue 1950, 21 September 1888, Page 3

CONFERENCE OF LIBERAL UNIONISTS

[PEB PRESS ASSOCIATION. London, September 20. A great Conference of Liberal Unionists is beiDg held at Bradford. , Lord Hartington was not able to attend, but wrote sympathising with the principles of the party, and expressing the opinion that the disorder and lawlessness so prevalent m Ireland were receiving increased support at the hands of allies m Englaud. Lord Derby, m the course of his speech, ridiculed the idea of regarding punishment tor resistance to lawful authority m the light of political martyrdom. Mr Chamberlain, m addressing the Conference, declared that it was impossible to grasp Mr Gladstone's policy, and that the Unionists were cot prepared to accept any scheme for local self-government m Ireland at the hands of Mr Farnell. Mr Chamberlain averred that the present evictions m Ireland were not unjust, and that the resistance of the tenants was merely a theatrical display. (Rtoelved September 21, 12.30 p no.) London, September 20. Mr Chamberlain speaking at the Unionist meeting at Bradford, cordially approved of the Government policy, for which be considered he was partly answerable himself. He averred he would not raise a finger to destroy Lord Balisbnry'g Government so long as the only alternative that remained was Mr Gladstone's accession to office. The alliance of Unionists and Conservtives wai firm and a thorough understanding prevailed, which he believed would result m the formation of a National party.