BRITISH POLITICS.

Gisborne Times, Volume VIII, Issue 475, 16 July 1902, Page 2

BRITISH POLITICS.

THE RETIREMENT OF LORD SALISBURY. PROMISES OF SUPPORT TO MR BALFOUR. SIR MICHAEL HICKS BEACH’S EXPLANATION. By Telegraph—Press Associa'.i m —Copyright London, July 15. The Duke of Devonshire. Lord Rosebery and others paid graceful tributes to Lord

Salisbury in the House of Lords. Three hundred and sixty six members of tfie Unionist Party met at the Foreign Office. Mr Balfour, presiding, eulogised Lord Salisbury’s long services, lie said he was unable with any assurance to count upon Sir Michael Hicks-Beacb's further assistance. The Duke of Devonshire, and Northbrook. Chaplin, Hart, and Dyke regretted Lord Salisbury's resignation, and promised Mr Balfour their support. Mr Chamberlain sent a message by his son Austen, acknowledging Lord Salisbury’s generosity and their pleasant political relations, and promising to assist Mr Balfour with pride and pleasure.

Sir Michael Ilicks Beach said that parting with Lord Salisbury was a break in the tradition of his own life. Two years ago ho had asked to be relieved of office on personal, not political, grounds. Now that was ended he renewed the desire to Mr Balfour, who admitted that the circumstances submitted required consideration. If he momentoiily retained office it would only be to show his loyalty to the new leader, to whom, whether in or nut of office, be would give his best help.

MR BALFOUR ASSUMES OFFICE. COLLEAGUES CONFIRMED IN OFFICE. THE CHANCELLORSHIP. By Telegraph—Press Association—Copyright London, July 15. Mr Balfour has assumed tho post of tho Privy Seal without salary. He has confirmed his various colleagues in office. Several changes and exchanges of office are expected before the autumn. Messrs Ritchie, Banbury, Brodrick, Austen Chamborlain, and Lord Georgo Hamilton aro mentioned for tho Chancellorship. It is understood that Sir Michael HicksBeach remains in olfieo till tho summer holidays.