THE VICTORIAN ASSEMBLY.

Greymouth Evening Star, Volume XXXI, 26 June 1901, Page 3

THE VICTORIAN ASSEMBLY.

Re-publication of Libel from “Irish People.” „ (by ilbgtrio telegraph—copyeige t.) (per PRESS association) Melbourne, June 23. An excited debate took place in the State Assembly on the question of the republication of the libel on the King from the newspaper Irish People in Melbourne by a weekly journal, Tocsin, which is published by Findley, the Labor member for Melbourne. The Premier severely condemned the republication. Ho had consulted the Attorney-General and found that they had not power to seize the unsold copies and considered that to institute a prosecution would only spread the libel. He then asked the Lieut-Governor to telegraph to the Imperial authorities to inquire if newspapers were suppressed as an act of State, and would the Imperial Government adopt it as such, as there was no other authority. Findley explained that he did not authorise the publication of the article. He did not read it till his attention was called to it by -ather papers. As the publisher of the Toscin had no control over its' contents he asked if he would apologise. Findley said he regretted that he had given offence to the House and that the article appeared. The Premier said that it was not sufficient to express regret. There must be ati unqualified disavowal and disapproval of the sentiments of the article. He then moved that Findley was guilty of disloyalty to the King and had committed an act discreditable to the honor of Parliament and he should be expelled from the Bouse. The Attorney-General seconded.. Mr Irvine, leader of the. Opposition, supported. The Rebate is proceeding.