THE MINISTERIAL CRISIS.

Globe, Volume VIII, Issue 1032, 16 October 1877, Page 3

THE MINISTERIAL CRISIS.

THE GREY MINISTRY. [PEOM THE COEEESPONDENT OF THE PRESS.] Wellington, October 15, 8 p.in. The new Ministry hare just taken their seats and look particularly uncomfortable in them. Mr Fisher sits there, having been sworn in to-day. The Treasurer's office is still vacant, but as yet has failed to attract a member fit to hold it. Sir George G-rey is Colonial Secretary, Mr Shoehan, Minister of Native Affairs and Justice ; Mr Fisher, Post-master-General; Mr Laraach, Minister for Public Works. Colonel Whitmore has at the last moment backed out, and the Government are in difficulties as to the conduct of business in the Upper House. Sir Francis Dillon Bell has consented to act for them until other arrangements are completed. Mr Buckley has refused to join them, and Mr Mantell is spoken of as the possible Minister. Great disgust is felt everywhere as to the new Ministry. The Nelson members are regretting the desertion of their party, and Mr Curtis is strongly opposed to the personnel of the Ministry, and has said he will propose a vote of no-confidence. Messrs Brandon, Johnston, Travers, and many others, will not support the Government. Mr Rolleston will probably support an Opposition too. Mr Stafford is back, and is already at work with the late Ministry consulting as to future measures. Nothing will be done to-night, pending Sir George Grey's completion of the_ Ministry and the announcement of their policy, but it is generally agreed that he cannot hold office during the session. Unless Mr Header Wood joins, it is difficult to see who Sir George can get as treasurer. Mr Fox has risen to move a resolution as to Mr Lusk's breach of privilege, but the Speaker has ruled that he must give notice of it. Mr Fox has therefore given notice for Wednesday, but a discussion as to the propriety of the resolution, as affecting the character of a member of tho House, is now proceeding. It is said that Major Atkinson has understated the provincial liabilities by £200,000, and that the estimates will require framing to meet this. Sir George Grey, being in receipt of a pension from the Homo Government, cannot draw salary, and it is said that he means to propose a reduction of Ministers' salaries and heavy retrenchments in the Civil Service. Many members have been away, but most of them are back again now. Sir George Grey has just risßii,'ami is making a Ministerial statement.