AUSTRALIAN NEWS.

Kaikoura Star, Volume XIV, Issue 762, 7 August 1894, Page 6

AUSTRALIAN NEWS.

SYDNEY, Aug 3 New Ministry finally announced, as already cabled, without alteration. With exception of Cook, its members have all had experience of Ministerial life. There appears to be a strong disposition among the Labor party to support the new Ministry. The illfeeling which prevails between Parkes and Reid culminated in the former rejecting, as an insult, an invitation, to be present at a dinner to the new Premier.

There has been further fall of snow in the southwest. The township of Kiandara is half buried. Nothing like such a heavy fall has occurred during the past 20 years. MELBOURNE, Aug 3 The Banks have agreed to reduce deposit rates to 3i per cent for 12 months and 2 per 'cent for 6 months. It is understood Banks in the ’other Australian Colonies will follow suit. Mrs Needle, arrested in connection with Juncker case, lias been committed for trial on a charge of poisoning.

SYDNEY Aug 3 Premier has received telegram from Premier of South Australia inviting attention to intercolonial freetrade. Reid has replied it is earnest desire of his Govt to promote commercial relations with other colonies.

Kingston sends a representative to Sydney shortly to discuss question with Reid.

After * swearing in ’ of Members, Parliament will adjourn until 28th of August, in order to permit reelection of Ministers.

Several prominent members of the Labour Electoral Leag-ue state it is unlikely that Members pledged to the League will support the Govt. Shearing difficulties tire cropping up again in many districts. Nothing so far of serious or decisive character has occurred.

Aug 4 Free labourers captured at Wilcannia have been released by police, who arrested 10 men found guarding them with clubs.

MELBOURNE, Aug 4 Proposed alteration in the Customs duties is causing some disorganisation in business, as it is uncertain whether Govt will definitely decide-to levy a general rate of 10 per cent. Chamber of Commerce has carried resolution that such a duty, if imposed should be 5, not 10 per cent.

Amongst other things, Govtjyoposes to place an excise duty on tobacco and cisrars. Manufacturers protest that this would kill industry, ami have already notified dismissal of between 500 and (300 men if impost is levied.

BRISBANE, Aug 4 Cambridge Downs woolshed burned down. Damage £12,000. Shed was insured for £4500. Origin of the fire unknown. Shearing was completed in the shed without any trouble.