THE FEDERAL FARCE.

Gisborne Times, Volume V, Issue 71, 27 March 1901, Page 2

THE FEDERAL FARCE.

The cablegrams from Australia 'show that the Federal Commission is becoming little better than a laughing stock. Directly it got beyond the direct influence of public opinion in New Zealand it shut its doors to the press representatives. The same dodge was tried in New Zealand, but failed to work successfully, the outcry being so great that it was found necessary to conduct the proceedings in the light of day. The most important information yet sent from Australia is as to the dinners to which the Commissioners have beeen invited. Those who know Sir George Dibbs cannot be otherwise than amused that his opinion should be given such importance. Sir George is a man who can within a very short space of time give two sets of opinions without being able to remember that the first set is not in harmony with the second; but in one thing he has been consistent —that is, in opposing federation in Australia.' A man who opposes federation of the Australian continent, with its multiplicity of artificial divisions, can hardly be taken seriously in dealing with the position of New Zealand. When the Commission concludes its labors, all the satisfaction the people of New Zealand will have will be to know that they have provided for the Commissioners having ai> enjoyable time, and being well remunerated for fheir services. ' '