SOUTH AFRICAN UNION

Dominion, Volume 14, Issue 144, 14 March 1921, Page 5

SOUTH AFRICAN UNION

OPENING OF PARLIAMENT GOVERNOR-GENERAL’S SPEECH By Telegraph—Press Association-Copyright. (Rec. March 12, 5.5 p.m.) Cape Town, March 11. The Speech of the Governor-General, Prince Arthur of Connaught, at the opening of Parliament, contained no surprises. It stated that the terms of the southwest mandate would be submitted for information. Reference was made to the stagnation of trade and industry, resulting in unemployment and social unrest throughout the world. It was now suddenly affecting South Africa, hence it was proposed to concentrate attention ae far as possible on measures necessary to cope with the financial and economic situation. The construction of railways was recommended, as it would create additional opportunities for employment; also measures to safeguard certain industries against unfair competition from overseas owing to the existing abnormal conditions.

Mr. Krige was re-elected Speaker, and Senator van Heerden President of the Senate, thus displacing ex-President Reitz, who had occupied the office since the Union was formed. General Smuts (Prime Minister), replying to a deputation of women, who presented fl petition containing 65,000 signatures, seeking women suffrage, said that an endeavour would be made in the coming session, to give an opportunity to deal with the question. The Government would not make the ■ question a party issue. He added: "You are supporting a great cause, which must, and should, win in this or a subsequent session.” —Aus.-N.Z. Cable Assn.