The Federation Convention.

Feilding Star, Volume XVIII, Issue 238, 10 April 1897, Page 3

The Federation Convention.

(Per Press Association.) Adelaide, April 9. When tbe Convention met this morn ing, Sir John Forrest sprung a surprise by moving tbe suspension of tbe Stand ing Orders to enable him to move thai the clause dealing with the finance and powers of the two Houses with regard to money bills be taken first when the bill goes into Committee, as tbe Wesl Australian delegates intended to return on Wednesday and wished to take part in the divisions on questions named outside of these. Tbey were willing to leave the bill to tbe judgment of other colonies. Strong opposition was made to Sir J. Forrest's proposal, but on a division he secured the suspension of the Standing Orders by 26 votes to 14. The small states voted solidly. One delegate each from New South Wales and Victoria Bided with them. Mr Higgins (Victoria) speaking to tbe resolution thought the division was an object lesson for those who upheld equal representation in the Senate. Sir Joseph Abbott twice endeavored to upset Sir J. Forrest's motion on points or order without success. After wasting the whole morning Sir J. Forrest withdrew his motion. Tbe Drafting Committee consisting of Mr Barton, Sir John Downer and Mr O'Connor, hope to bave tbe bill ready on Monday morning. Tbe petition received from the Queensland Separation League favor tbe division of that colony into three separate States. The Convention adjourned till Monday.