BRITISH PARLIAMENT.

Hokitika Guardian, 23 December 1927, Page 3

BRITISH PARLIAMENT.

KING’S SPEECH. (Australian & N.Z. Cable Association.) I.OQNPOX, Dec. 22. The King’s speech at the prorogation of Parliament dwells on the satisfaction afforded by the enthusiastic reception given to the Prince of Wales and Rrince George in Canada, and the Duke and Duchess of York in Australia, New Zealand and elsewhere. President Douinerguo’s visit to London during the summer afforded the people a welcome opportunity of demonstrating affection for France. Frank and friendly AngioKgyptian conversations took place on the occasion of the visit of King Fuad, and were a good augury for the future. British proposals at Geneva Naval Conference would, if accepted, have substantially reduced tho naval strengths and costs to nations. Despite the temporary failure, Britain does not intend embarking oil an increased naval building programme, which was based oil a considered view of the defensive needs of the Empir. The speech refers to the great value of recent inter-imperial Conferences in London and earnestly trusts from the labours of the Indian Statutory Commission, that a system of Government may emerge giving contentment to the people of India and strengthening the bonds that unite the Empire. The speech adverts to the Anglo-lraq treaty and notes with satisfaction the debt funding agreements signed in respect of all Allied war debts to Britain, except Russia. The state of employment, though showing welcome signs of improvement in some parts of the country still causes anxiety in others. It was confidentially* anticipated that the co-operation of both home and overseas in the work ol the Board which has been appointed, should facilitate the transfer of labour, particularly in the coal mining industry.

Ihe speech adds: “ f followed with great interest the Duke and Duchess o' York’s journey and rejoice at their return. I learned from them with deep satisfaction of the loyal, enthusiastic welcome they invariably experienced. 1 11 the Commons Mr Baldwin said legislation was required to carry out the abolition of Transport and Mines Department, but it was unnecessary in the ease of the Overseas ’trade Department. Many requests were received to retain all three, therefore, it was evident that the legislation would be controversial. so it must he considered in relation to the time available next session. Mr Morrison : “ That means that the Departments will continue till time is found for legislation ? ” Mr Baldwin: “That seems a reasonable deduction.” Mr Harris: “Are we to understand the three Ministers retain their jobs? ” Mr Baldwin: “That is one way of putting it. 1 would rather say for the time being they carry oil.”