THE FEDERAL COUNCIL.

Kumara Times, Issue 2893, 5 February 1886, Page 2

THE FEDERAL COUNCIL.

[Reuter’s Special Correspondent.]

(Received February 4, 8.50 p.m.) Hobart, February 4. In the Council to-day, the Federal Evidence and Federal Judgment Bills were read a third time.

After a long debate, a motion was adopted for the presentation of an address to his Excellency the Governor asking him to lay on the table despatches relative to the establishment and administration of a New Guinea protectorate. AH the speakers who took part in the discussion expressed the opinion that the state of affairs in that territory was far from satisfactory. The President, Mr Service, urged that the question be referred to the Standing Committee, in order that all the colonies might be communicated with on the subject during the recess of the Council. (Received February 5, 1.15 a.m.) Later. In the Council this afternoon Mr Service read a telegram which lie had received from Mr Murray Smith, Victorian Agent - General, confirming Reuters message already published relative to the agreement between Germany and Franee as to the possible

occupation by the latter country of the New Hebrides. A*Select Committee is ■appointed to draw up an address for presentation to her Majesty the Queen in reference thereto.

The Council then adopted a motion reccommeuding common action on the part of all the colonies in the matter of granting an indemnity in case of life or property sacrificed in time of war.