MR BARTON’S SPEECH.

Gisborne Times, Volume VII, Issue 314, 15 January 1902, Page 2

MR BARTON’S SPEECH.

CONFOUNDING THE PRO-BOER?.

By Telegraph—Press Association—Copyright Melbourne, Jan. 14.

As soon as tho Fedoral House met, Mr Barton, with the view of forestalling a threatened attack on the Government in connection with the despatch of the Federal Contingent, notified that he intended to move, after suspension of the standing orders, the following resolutions: “ This House take the first opportunity, in view of the despatch of a Federal Contingent, to oxpress its indignation at tho baseless charges made abroad against the honor of the people and the humanity and valor of the soldiers of the Empire.” “ This House affirms the readiness of Australia to give all requisite aid to tho Mother Country in order to bring the present war to an end.” He explained that the only correspondence that had passed between the Imperial and Federal Governments in reforenee to the Government, was : “ Glad to have a thousand mounted men,” and the Federal Government reply, “ men gladly sent.” There had been no offer of troops on the part of the Commonwealth, for reasons previously explained. He considered that under tho circumstances it was unnecessary unless asked for. He had taken steps to verify the allegations made as to German newspapers slandering the British. These statements were infinitely worse than had been cabled to Australia. One loading German newspaper stated : “ The Australians, not finding the war a promenade to Pretoria and a nursery game, are no longer willing to tako a share in it.” Mr Barton defended the action of deciding to despatch a contingent without fulfilling the promise to first consult the House. The recess had rendered that impossible, as it was necessary to act without delay. Had more troops been asked for they would have been sent.

The standing orders being suspended, Mr Barton moved the first resolution. In a patriotic speech he defended the Empire and the honor of the soldiers. He warmly denounced the German and other charges which had been made against Australian as well as British troops. He announced that he had received a lotter from M r Reid, promising his support. Mr Reid, in seconding the motion, said that Mr Barton had performed a great public duty. He spoke on similar lines to what Mr Barton had done. The debate is proceeding.