NEW HEBRIDES.

Gisborne Times, Volume XIX, Issue 1693, 9 March 1906, Page 2

NEW HEBRIDES.

IGNORING THE COLONIES.

By telegraph, Press Ass’n, Copyright Melbourne, March 8.

The Age, in urging the unsatisfactory nature cf tho Now Hebrides agreement, says if Parliament had beep sitting it is qaite certain tho adjournment of both Houses would have beep moved to discuss the situation, especially tbs absolute ignoring of the representation of every Fodera! Mi lister for External Affairs sinoe federation wale consummated.

The Age summarises tho case against the settlement in so far as it is revealed by tho oabl's as fellows: —lt was arrived at without aDy communication or consultation with Australia or New Zealand, and deals with only nno question, that of land disputes. It refuses Australia representation on the land tribunal, lays down no basis for the regulation of trade, and sets out no code of laws outside the suggested commune-. It contains the old dual control system, under which Frarcs will be able to further increase her hold on tho islands. It ignores the expressed desire of inffueotial native rulers to be placed definitely under British rule. . '■

Sydney, Maroh 8.

Island traders at Sydney consider the New Hobrides agreement will give France a preponderating influence. The system of munioipal government will enable French settlors to oontrol the group, owing to British holdings being soattered, while Frenoh settlements are at stiategio points and provide the only important base on the future route between England and Australia, via tbo Panama Canal.