BRITISH ELECTORAL REFORM.

Hokitika Guardian, 18 January 1917, Page 2

BRITISH ELECTORAL REFORM.

Agreed Recommendations. (Australia & N.Z. Cable Assocvition) London, Jan 17

The Daily Chronicle cays a conference of Peers and Commoners, under the Chairmanship of the Speaker, has concluded an investigation of electoral reform, and makes recommendations on the fo'lowinw lines :—.

Tlis qualifying period f or lie Parliamentary vote is reduced to eix motiT bs. Soldiers and tailors to retain their votp, despite the loss of household qualifications. All elections to b 9 held on one day. Returning officer*’ expenses to be paid from the public funds. Pinrnl voting to be abolished, bet a man to be qualified to vote in two constituencies, if he resides in one place and bis business place is in anther. University representation to be retained and to be extended to bring in new universities.

Redistribution for G r eat Britain on the basis of one vete, one value;

Irish over representation has already bean solved by the H roe Rule Act. Proportional representation to ensure that the House of Commons be a mere exact mirror of the national feeling. Certain constituencies are grouped together to prevent the obliteration of Conservative voters in Wales and Liberal voters in Home counties. The Committee failed to reach an agreement oa women's suffrage.

Sinkings. [United Service.—Copyrigh r ] London, Jan 16 Sinkirg* include the British steamer Brookwood and the Norwegian Thultna. Swiss Preuarations [IIEUTEU’S SERVICE. COrYItIGHX. J Berne. Jan 16 The Pridetf 1 Conned announces that it considers it necemary to take mere precautionary measures and has therefore Jordered three divisiora to mob : - lise on Iho 24th. It declares that it remains fully confident of the inientions of belligerents towards Swiss* neutrality. The Pope’s Message Washington, Jan 16 The Spanish Ambassador to-day conveyed to the President the Pope’a congratulations ou his recent peace move. The Pope Bent no suggestion of a future move.

Caring for Returned MenMelbourne Jan 17 The authorities are elaborating a scheme, especiilly providing for returned soldiers suffering frbm mental diseases and tuberculosis, aud for these physically incapacitated and without relatives or friondr.

Terms Accepted. (Received Jan 18, at 9.25 a.m.) London, Jan 1? 3 The Exchange Telegraph states Greece has notified the Allies that she accepts the ultimatum unreservedly. Repatriated Soldiers. Sydney, Jan 17 Mr ABhford announced in connection with the scheme for placing repatriated soldiers ou the land that the first twelve months,, the men Bhoald be saddled with no responsibility and at the same time they should bs paid wages and provided with their keep, while working under expert eupervi9ion,.the wages paid representing an advance on account of employment. When sufficient farms had been fairly established it was intended to adopt a co-operative system of baying and selling.

imperial Conference.

London, Jan 1G v The “ Pall Mall Gazette ’’ says that probably the Imperial Conference will arrange for continued Domiwdns’ representation daring the war. Cabinet is favourable, and has suggested that each of the Dominions shell appoint a representative who shall be available for consultation and attendance at the Cabinet, thus securing continuity of policy. The appointment of a Dominion’s Secretary is urged. The Conference. Melbourne, Jan 18 The latest suggestion is that probably Mr Pearce will attend the Imperial Conference. Beyond admitting that the Party had discussed the question of representatioc, Mr Hughes would say nothiog. Professor Laby, acting Secretary of the Round Table states in reply to a cable sent to London he had received the following from one whose knowledge of the facts ooonot be questioned —“Matters vitally affectiug Australian Empire certain to be discussed at Imperial Conference. It. is of utmost importance that Australia send the m.st authoritative representative possible.”