Australian.

Hokitika Guardian, 14 February 1917, Page 3

Australian.

Feb Press’ Association. —Copyright

Coalition Prospects

(Received Feb 14, at 10.25 a.ra.) Melbourne, Feb 14 The prospects of a coalition are not as bright as formerly. The Ministerialists agreed to the terms but the Liberals, after a protraoted meotmg, did not come to a definite termination. v While other terms in the agreement were aocepted, they lengthily debated the clause that tbe conscription referendum decision be respected, and passed a resolution that ail must be rotgo ten about the referendum. Even though oompulsory service beyond Australia was banished from their minds, everything possible must be done to bring home to the people tha necessity of reinforcements. A further motion was carried that in view of the gerionsness of the situation, it was urgently necessary for the Minister of Defence to sit in the House of Representatives,

In the Senate. Melbourne, Feb 14 In the Senate, Mr Russell said it was not'intended to enfranchise all soldiers at the front over 18. In reply to an unemployed deputation Mr Hughes stated that at hia suggestion the Imperial Government was taking a thousand oarpentcra from Australia to assist in war work in Britain. Ia reply to a question about work for other unemployeds here, he said there was no money available and no large public works would be started. A Shipping BoardMelbourne, Feb 14 It is stated in shipping circles that tbe Federal Government is appointing a Board to have full control of. oversea shipping cargo matters and to aot in ca-opsration with the Board in existence in England. A smaller Board will be appointed to control interstate shipping. Runaway Train. Hobart, Feb 14 A runaway railway van collided with a train at Lynchford, wrecking three carriages and injuring five passengers.