MR CHAMBERLAIN.

Gisborne Times, Volume IX, Issue 826, 26 February 1903, Page 2

MR CHAMBERLAIN.

ENDORSES LORD MILNER’S FIRM

POLICY,

By Telegraph—Press Association— CopyrightReceived 10 p.m., Feb. 25. Capetown, Feb. 25.

At a farewell banquot, at which four hundred, including Hofmeyer, were prosent, Mr Chamborlain said that it waß too early to state the results of his unprecedented mission. South African interests required federation, though tho Colonial Office would not interfere. Since reconciliation was proceeding apace in tho Transvaal and Oraugo Colony, why should it not in the Cape. If Lord Milner’s firm and sympathetic policy was continued those colonies would become tho most prosperous of the Empire, though the Cape remained tho point of danger. Recent incidents gave hopo to a now era, especially since the Progressives accepted Hofmcyer’s authoritative assurances of a sincere amnesty. Tho decision rested with tho Colonial, not with tho Imperial Government. Ho hopod such good feelings might prevail as to justify the clearing of tho State by tho rolcaso of all political offenders. He advocated Imporial, not local patriotism, and concluded amidst great cheering. London, Feb. 25. Tho Standard states that Mr Chamborlain recommends a goneral amnesty, not reinfranehisement. It was a graceful ending to his visit. The Times doclares that if any statesman inspiring less confidence than Mr Chamborlain recommended an amnesty the British would havo regarded the step with deep misgiving. Certainly the act was ono of generous boldnoss, bordering on temerity. Capetown, Fob. 25.

Mr Chamberlain promised to present to the King the Australian deputation’s petition for the release of AVilton.